Chicago Bears greats Steve “Mongo” McMichael, Devin Hester, and Julius Peppers were officially elected to the Pro Football Hall of Fame during the NFL Honors Night on Thursday. McMichael and Hester spent the vast majority of their careers in Chicago, while Peppers had four impactful years with the Bears. The other inductees include Dwight Freeney, Andre Johnson, Patrick Willis, and Randy Gradishar. Hester and Peppers were on hand in Las Vegas for the announcement, while McMichael was represented by his wife, Misty. McMichael was diagnosed with ALS in 2021.
Congratulations have been pouring in across social media, and the Bears brass made sure to give their kudos to these legendary players who shined on the lakefront for a number of years. Chairman George McCaskey had words of appreciation for all three inductees via Larry Mayer of the Bears website.
On McMichael, who spent 13 seasons with the Bears, totaled 92.5 career sacks, and was a key component of the 1985 Super Bowl team:
“This honor is well deserved and long overdue and we are so happy for Steve and his family. To be cut by a team early in your career and then go on to the Pro Football Hall of Fame is a tremendous accomplishment. Steve showed us all what can be achieved through grit, toughness and hard work, and he has earned his place among game’s immortals.”
On Hester, who became the most dynamic return specialist almost immediately when he was drafted in 2006 and holds multiple special teams records:
“Devin revolutionized the game. No one had seen anything like him, and there hasn’t been anyone like him since. He had opposing head coaches telling their special teams coordinators ‘don’t kick to that guy’ and they suffered the consequences when the message didn’t get through. We’re delighted that the Hall has recognized Devin’s special talents.”
On Peppers, who was a Bear from 2010–2013 and made three Pro Bowls during that time:
“Julius was one of the best free-agent signings in Bears history, and a dominant player on the field. Our congratulations to him.”
In addition to McCaskey, Bears president Kevin Warren also shared his congratulations to all three players on their achievement:
“We are ecstatic and extremely grateful that both Steve McMichael and Devin Hester have been selected for induction into the Pro Football Hall of Fame. Both of these men were transformative football players who have always represented themselves, their families and the Chicago Bears with dignity, class and grace. Having Steve and Devin become the 31st and 32nd members of our franchise enshrined into Canton is very memorable and special. We would also like to congratulate Julius Peppers on his enshrinement and we deeply appreciate his positive impact on the Chicago Bears.”
All three players will be enshrined this August in Canton, Ohio.
