“Asking for Prayers”: Bears Legend Steve McMichael Rushed to ER With Suspected Pneumonia Amid Als Battle

The once indomitable Steve McMichael faces a new adversary. The Bears defensive tackle recently got nominated for the NFL Hall of Fame but his celebrations have been marred with health issues and suspected pneumonia and a urinary tract infection. Former running back Jarrett Payton shared the news on Twitter, “asking for prayers’’ for the ailing legend.

McMichael had been a key member of the 1985 Bears squad along with it, he had been recognized for his dominance in the NFL for as long as 15 seasons. It was on February 15, Thursday, he was rushed to the hospital. McMichael had been already going through a health battle and had been diagnosed with amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS). 

Prayers pour in for McMichael

McMichael had been already going through a health battle after being diagnosed with amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) in January 2021. It was since then the legend has been fighting against neurodegenerative disease. Former NFL player and son of the legendary Walter Payton, Jarrett Payton shared the news on Twitter amplifying the call for prayers and support within the football community for his latest suspected diagnosis of pneumonia. As per the latest reports, McMichael has been admitted to ICU for also having a urinary tract infection.

The 66-year-old has been robbed of his ability to move or speak for more than three years now. Last year summer, McMiachel had been hospitalized as sepsis along with pneumonia took charge of his body. A “do not resuscitate” order had been in place owing to the severity of his condition. Throughout the battle, he demonstrated extraordinary resilience and was supported by his wife Misty. However, even while fighting his health battle, McMichael hoped to fulfill a particular dream.

McMichael’s storied NFL career

Being immobilized, he often spoke of his dream to witness the unveiling of his bust at the NFL Hall of Fame in Canton, Ohio. Fate intervened, as last Thursday, February 8, McMichael’s dream took a significant step toward reality. He, alongside, Devin Hester, former Bear, was elected to the NFL Hall of Fame. As a result of this, he and his family decided to remove the order and opt for life-saving medical care and with this came his ultimate achievement of receiving the coveted Yellow Jacket.

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With this achievement, his past accolades on the field resurfaced. McMichael’s illustrious football career saw him spend 13 seasons with the Bears. In this tenure, he became the linchpin of the famed 46 defenses during the 198 triumphant Super Bowl season. Besides, the legend secured his place as the third-highest sack producer among NFL defensive tackles by amassing 92.5 sacks.    

As the football world sends well-wishes and prayers, awaiting the speedy recovery of McMichael, the enduring spirit of Team Mongo resonates. His dominance on the field and his resilience in the toughest times create a powerful narrative of courage as he continues to inspire generations as a football icon.   

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