Bears Great Steve McMichael Contracts Another Infection

CHICAGO, IL — Steve "Mongo" McMichael contracted another infection, days after the Bears legend was admitted into an intensive care unit, his family said Saturday.

McMichael contracted MRSA — a staph infection that's difficult to treat — and was getting a blood transfusion as of Saturday afternoon.

"We are asking for your prayers to get Steve through this difficult time," his family said in a statement. "Steve and his family and close friends believe in the power of prayer."

McMichael, 66, was hospitalized Thursday with suspected pneumonia but was later diagnosed with a urinary tract infection. He responded well to antibiotics and underwent thoracentesis — a procedure to remove fluid from his lungs — and was expected to be released from the hospital in the coming days, his family said Friday.

The former defensive tack was hospitalized one week after getting voted for induction into the Pro Football Hall of Fame. He joins a 2024 Hall of Fame class that includes former Bears Julius Peppers and Devin Hester. The induction ceremony is on Aug. 3.

McMichael competed in the NFL for 15 seasons, including 13 with the Bears from 1981-93. He was a central figure in the Bears' famed "46 defense," which helped the 1985 team to one of the greatest seasons in NFL history and a Super Bowl title.

After retiring, McMichael remained a popular figure in Chicago, with regular appearances on local sports radio. He also coached the Chicago Slaughter in the Continental Indoor Football League from 2007-13.

He also spent five years as a professional wrestler in the 1990s.

In 2021, McMichael was diagnosed with ALS, more commonly known as Lou Gehrig's disease.