Dick Butkus

Richard Marvin Butkus December 9 1942 October 5 2023 was an American former professional football player sports commentator and actor He played football as a middle linebacker for the Chicago Bears of the National Football League NFL from 1965 to 1973 He was invited to eight Pro Bowls named a firstteam AllPro six times and was twice recognized by his peers as the NFLs Defensive Player of the Year He was renowned as a fierce tackler and for the relentless effort with which he played and is widely regarded as one of the greatest and most intimidating linebackers in pro football history