Steve McMichael passed away in April 2025, at the age of 67. The former Super Bowl XX winner lost his long-standing battle with ALS. Following his death, his wife, Misty, donated his brain to be studied.
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McMichael has now been post-mortemly diagnosed with CTE. "Pro Football Hall of Famer Steve McMichael has been diagnosed with CTE a year after his death, the Concussion and CTE Foundation announced," TMZ reported.
CTE, which stands for chronic traumatic encephalopathy, can only be diagnosed post-mortem. It has reportedly impacted countless athletes, primarily from combat sports and full-contact sporting backgrounds.
"Too many NFL players are developing ALS during life and diagnosed with CTE after death," Misty said in a statement. "I donated Steve's brain to inspire new research into the link between them."
CTE's known symptoms can include mood swings, depression and even impulsive behavior.
Misty's decision to donate Steve's brain was likely to aid in the study of both ALS and potentially CTE. Chris Nowinski, the co-founder and CEO of the Concussions & CTE Foundations, recently released a statement regarding the donation of Steve's brain.
"Steve McMichael was known for his strength, toughness, and larger-than-life presence, but his final act was to give a piece of himself back to the sports community so that we might have a chance to save ourselves," Nowinski said, per The Independent.
Steve McMichael Enjoyed a Stellar Football Career
McMichael suited up for 213 NFL games throughout his career. He spent one season with the New England Patriots as a rookie before moving to the Chicago Bears. McMichael was part of Chicago's roster for 13 seasons, winning All-Pro honors on four occasions.
McMichael also won the Super Bowl with Chicago in 1985 and played in a total of 14 postseason games for the franchise. The talented defensive tackle was a two-time Pro-Bowl selection during his tenure in Chicago, making the team in 1986 and 1987.
The veteran talent ended his career with a lone season with the Green Bay Packers. He played in 16 games at the age of 37, starting 14 of them.
McMichael enjoyed a legendary career, earning himself a spot in the Pro Football Hall of Fame as a result.
