dailyloe.com – Chicago Bears Hall of Famer Steve McMichael was posthumously diagnosed with chronic traumatic encephalopathy (CTE). The diagnosis was confirmed by researchers at Boston University. McMichael, a key member of the legendary 1985 Bears defense, died in 2023 at the age of 67.
The neurodegenerative disease is linked to repeated head trauma. It is commonly found in athletes who play contact sports. McMichael’s family shared the findings with ESPN on Tuesday.
Steve McMichael played 13 seasons for the Chicago Bears from 1981 to 1993. He was a two-time First-Team All-Pro and a Pro Bowl selection. He was part of one of the most dominant defenses in NFL history.
CTE can only be definitively diagnosed after death. Symptoms often include memory loss, confusion, and impaired judgment. The disease has been found in many former professional football players.
McMichael’s diagnosis adds to the growing data on football and brain health. The NFL has faced increased scrutiny over player safety. This has led to rule changes regarding head injuries in recent years.
His family hopes the diagnosis raises further awareness. They want to highlight the long-term risks associated with the sport. McMichael was enshrined in the Pro Football Hall of Fame in 2024.[]
Source: ESPN
