Bears Great Steve McMichael Hospitalized

After battling infections in February, former Bears defensive tackle Steve McMichael has returned to the hospital for tests.

Steve McMichael, elected to the Pro Football Hall of Fame in February, has been hospitalized due to complications from ALS. USA TODAY photo. /

Bears great Steve McMichael was been hospitalized again in his battle against amyotrophic lateral sclerosis.

Elected to the Pro Football Hall of Fame in February during Super Bowl week, McMichael went to the hospital, and underwent tests while his family was asking for prayers. He was treated and released later.

Update on Steve McMichael: He has a urinary tract infection (UTI) and will be returning home tonight. His family wanted me to convey their gratitude for all the prayers and support. #PrayersWork 🙏🏽#Bears

— Jarrett Payton (@paytonsun) April 3, 2024

The 66-year-old member of the 1985 world champion Bears team was released from the hospital in late February after being treated for MRSA, pneumonia and a urinary tract infection. In August of last year he was hospitalized with sepsis and pneumonia.

ALS, known as Lou Gehrig's Disease after claiming the life of the Yankees great, is a nervous system disease that weakens and destroys cells and physical functions.

McMichael has been paralyzed by the disease and has been battling it since the announcement three years ago that he had the illness.

"Mongo," as teammates called him, was represented by his wife, Misty, at the Hall of Fame announcement during Super Bowl week and will be presented at Canton Aug. 3 for enshrinement by Jarrett Payton, Walter Payton's son.

McMichael's NFL career spanned from 1980-94 and started with New England for part of one season before he went to Chicago and then finished with one season in Green Bay. He went on to a pro wrestling and broadcasting career after he retired from football.

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