Bears fans pay homage to all-time great Dick Butkus, who passed away Thursday
By Kristen Wong
Chicago Bears legend Dick Butkus passed away on Thursday at the age of 80.
The eight-time Pro Bowler, five-time All-Pro, and two-time Defensive Player of the Year made a lasting impression in his nine-year NFL career and will go down in history as one of the greatest linebackers in history.
Butkus' colleagues have described the Bears player as one of the meanest, toughest, and most ferocious tackles that ever lived, laying waste to anyone who dared cross his path.
His resume stands on its own, but it's his character that sets him apart from the rest. In his time in the league, Butkus redefined the linebacker position and has set a high standard for the players that follow him, whether on the Bears or otherwise.
Butkus was inducted into the Hall of Fame in 1979, and the Bears have since retired his iconic No. 51 jersey.
News of Butkus' passing led to an outpouring of support on Twitter where Bears fans and NFL fans alike gave their condolences. Some spoke about their favorite Butkus moments, others lamented that they never got to see him play. One thing is for certain: Butkus will be remembered.
A season of sorrow: Bears fans grieve Dick Butkus' death
Dick Butkus was such a badass, man. RIP to An absolute #Bears and NFL legend.
— Zack Pearson (@Zack_Pearson) October 5, 2023
Here is not only one of my favorite Butkus pictures, but Bears picture of all time. pic.twitter.com/VvJpXfjJns
An all-time great with an all-time great name has passed.
— Tom Segura AKA Mr. Ladybug (@tomsegura) October 5, 2023
Rest in peace, Dick Butkus pic.twitter.com/m8lL2UmYrg
Rest in Peace to the most vicious tackler in NFL history (and Bears social media admin). Forever a legend, RIP Dick Butkus pic.twitter.com/A1jUEUgggu
— Ross Pins (@chisportsross) October 5, 2023
Dick Butkus is, was, and always will be #DaBears.
— Bears Talk (@TheBearsTalk) October 5, 2023
RIP pic.twitter.com/GtepoXIweV
You can shit on the Bears, but you can’t shit on Dick Butkus.
— Alex Patt (@chifanpatt2) October 5, 2023
RIP to the legend, the Enforcer, Dick Butkus. #DaBears
— Clay Harbor (@clayharbs82) October 5, 2023
I never got to see Dick Butkus play. But I’ve watched his highlights several times. Great man. Hilarious on Twitter. Truly a legend.
— Dave (@dave_bfr) October 5, 2023
Chicago Bears legend. NFL legend. One of the best ever.
This game tonight means nothing but man would it be cool to get a win in his honor.
The football world lost a legend today. May Butkus rest in peace.
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