Dick Butkus has passed away at the age of 80
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altgeld88
- Arlington, Virginia
I'd be interested in the percentage of those retired NFL QBs and RBs who faced DB over the years who experienced PTSD symptoms each time Dick appeared on TV in the '70s and '80s while they were watching.
Butkus embodied a level of passion, drive, and commitment that few people ever ascend to – or even want to. Michael Jordan was also one who did. People like this just think differently and live and perform on a different level.
With the amount of multiple millions of dollars now being paid to players each year... this can serve to maybe make an athlete take his foot off the personal gas peddle a bit because big money is coming in regardless of winning games or personal effort. But the players who are born with that elevated level of seeking excellence will continue to do so above and beyond the influence of money. But it’s getting harder.
Butkus played in an era when football was more ‘earthy’ and raw. While there still is plenty of danger and violence in the game today... back in Butkus’ era there was none of this silly signaling when make a first down or prancing around like a peacock when you make a good play. It was just – football. Man to man, no funny business. Raw and passionate. Seeking glory in the dirt and grass and mud and sweat and grunting and cursing.
When Butkus made a great play... he would just snarl again... line up for the next down.. and strike terror in the hearts of his opposition all over again.
It’s a damn shame that the Bears did not have great success in Butkus’ era. Men like that deserve to have team success on the same high level that they personally played the game. But that just adds another remarkable layer to the kind of player and person he was. He was going to be his best regardless of what anyone else on the field was doing.
For those in heaven going warily, "Where is Butkus?" He's still in their heads. Just like he's in all our hearts.
Yep, someone asked Gale Sayers what was the biggest hit he ever took and he answered, "Butkus clothes-lined me once in practice"
Two of my all time favorite Bears. RIP, Dick
Played Center also.
LeinieGuy
Will work for bourbon
- Lexington, KY
He was 20 when he got married, so I believe so
Yes, he got married in ‘63 while he was a student.
Check out his family pic below where 2 of his 3 kids happen to be wearing Illinois shirts.
Get to know Dick Butkus' wife, Helen
DICK Butkus was widely known for his years playing for the NFL. The former football player passed away in October 2023 and is survived by his wife Helen and their three children. Who is Dick Butkus…
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Utterly fantastic. “Here, want this? I’m done with it.” More devastating to a defender than any dancing or prancing could ever be.
My dad's favorite player was Doug Atkins from Humboldt Tennessee. Close to Bradford where dad grew up.
Joel Goodson
- how was I to know, she was with the Russians too?
Really cool interview between new Bear Tremaine Edmunds and Dick Butkus that was recorded last month:
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