Dick Butkus

Richard Marvin Butkus (December 9, 1942 – October 5, 2023) was an American professional football linebacker, sports commentator, and actor who played his entire NFL career with the Chicago Bears from 1965 to 1973. Born in Chicago, he played all of his football in his home state of Illinois, starting at Chicago Vocational High School. At the University of Illinois he lined up at both linebacker and center for the Fighting Illini, earned consensus All-American honors twice, led the team to a Rose Bowl victory in 1963, and was named the most valuable player in the Big Ten Conference. He was recognized as college football's Lineman of the Year in 1964 and was inducted into the College Football Hall of Fame in 1983.

The Bears selected Butkus with the third overall pick in the 1965 NFL draft. Over nine seasons he was invited to eight Pro Bowls, named a first-team All-Pro five times, and was twice recognized by his peers as the NFL's Defensive Player of the Year. He was known as a fierce tackler and for the relentless effort with which he played, a reputation that endured throughout his time in Chicago.