While the hope was Chicago Bears legend Steve McMichael would be able to attend his Hall of Fame induction this August despite having ALS, that unfortunately won’t be the case, according to his longtime spokeswoman Betsy Shepherd.
“Steve McMichael will not be able to travel to Canton, Ohio, for his Pro Football Hall of Fame induction due to complications of ALS he has so valiantly fought the last three years,” Shepherd said in a statement Friday night. “The Hall of Fame is making plans for presenting his honor at his home.”
McMichael spent 13 seasons with the Bears and won Super Bowl XX in the 1985 season. McMichael was a two-time first-team All-Pro, three-time second-team All-Pro and two-time Pro Bowler. His 92.5 career sacks rank second in franchise history, behind only Richard Dent (124.5).
McMichael chose Jarrett Payton, the son of Bears great Walter Payton, to introduce him at the induction ceremony.
McMichael is one of three former Bears players who were elected the Hall of Fame this year, alongside return specialist Devin Hester and edge rusher Julius Peppers.
Chicago will face the Houston Texans in the Pro Football Hall of Fame Game on Thursday, Aug. 1, ahead of the induction ceremony on Saturday, Aug. 3.