The Chicago Bears haven’t done a lot of winning over their history, but they have produced plenty of legends in the game. That was put on display on Thursday night when the 2024 Pro Football Hall of Fame class was announced, and three Bears were selected — Devin Hester, Steve McMichael, and Julius Peppers.
This was a great announcement for Bears fans. We all remember how good a guy like Peppers was during his four seasons with the team. He spent some time with other teams (Carolina Panthers and Green Bay Packers), but some of his best seasons came while wearing the navy and orange.
McMichael played 13 of his 15 seasons (1981-1993) with Chicago. That means he was on the legendary 1985 team that won the Super Bowl. He was diagnosed with ALS in Jan. 2021, and his health has deteriorated over the past few years. But his push for the Hall of Fame kept him fighting.
Hester is the greatest kick returner in the history of the NFL. He was a mediocre wide receiver but an exceptional return man. He changed the way that position is viewed forever. Even when he didn’t find the endzone, the offense found itself in good field position.
This Hall of Fame class was historical. It was the first time that three players, who spent at least four seasons with the same team, were inducted into the Hall of Fame from the same class since 2000 (San Francisco 49ers).
Hester, McMichael and Peppers mark the first time since 2000 (49ers) that three players who spent at least four seasons with the same team and were inducted into the same class. #Bears
— Zack Pearson (@Zack_Pearson) February 9, 2024
This is very cool for Bears fans. Seeing their players make it to the Hall of Fame is always special. Being alive to see one of these all-time great Bears representations is extra special. All of these guys were memorable in their way and deserve this recognition.
As a class like this comes out with all of this Bears representation, you can’t help but hope that more greatness is on the way soon. Chicago is trying to build a winner and it would be nice to see them produce a few Hall of Fame-type talents in the not-so-distant future. It would be nice to see all of the festivities that come from this announcement motivate the modern-day Bears to become great, as well.