Tragic news as legendary Chicago Bear Dick Butkus died at the age of 80 on Thursday
TMZ first reported the news. Malibu (Ca.) police confirmed Butkus’ death.
Our sources tell us … paramedics responded to a call for a medical emergency at Butkus’ residence in Malibu at 12:51 PM. He was pronounced dead at the scene.
We’re told someone went to check on Butkus at his home on Thursday … and he was found unresponsive.
Butkus played college ball at the University of Illinois and was drafted by the Bears in 1965. He was chosen third. overall. The Bears had the next pick and selected Gale Sayers.
Both players wound up as Pro Football Hall of Famers.
Butkus had 22 interceptions and 27 fumble recoveries.
He also famously caught a pass on a PAT.
RIP Dick Butkus. Best point after conversion ever. #RIPDickButkus pic.twitter.com/PUj8K7cr6C
— robmillertime (@robmillertime) October 5, 2023
His ferocious play was iconic as one of the Monsters of the Midway.
Butkus’ No. 51 was retired by the Bears in 1994. He was named to the league’s All-Decade teams in the ‘60s and ‘70s … as well as the 75th and 100th Anniversary teams.
He entered the Hall of Fame in 1979 in his first year of eligibility. He started all 119 games he played for the Bears, earning six All-NFL selections, two Defensive Player of the Year honors, and was selected for eight Pro Bowls.
