Dick Butkus

Dick Butkus, born on December 9, 1942, in Chicago, Illinois, is an American former professional football player who is widely regarded as one of the greatest linebackers in the history of the sport. Butkus is known for his aggressive and hard-hitting style of play, which made him a feared defender and a fan favorite during his time in the NFL.

Dick Butkus

Early Life and Education

Butkus grew up in the Roseland neighborhood of Chicago and attended Chicago Vocational High School, where he played both football and basketball. He was a standout athlete in both sports, and his football skills caught the attention of college recruiters from across the country.

Butkus ultimately chose to attend the University of Illinois, where he continued to excel on the football field. He was a two-time All-American and won the prestigious Dick Butkus Award, which is named in his honor and is given annually to the best linebacker in college football.

Professional Career

After graduating from college, Butkus was selected by the Chicago Bears with the third overall pick in the 1965 NFL Draft. He quickly established himself as one of the best players in the league, earning Pro Bowl honors in each of his first six seasons.

Butkus was known for his punishing hits and his ability to intimidate opposing players. He was also an excellent tackler and had a knack for forcing turnovers. In 1970, he was named the NFL’s Defensive Player of the Year.

Unfortunately, injuries began to take a toll on Butkus in the latter part of his career, and he was forced to retire in 1973 after just nine seasons in the NFL. Despite his relatively short career, he was named to the Pro Football Hall of Fame in 1979, cementing his legacy as one of the greatest linebackers of all time.

Life After Football

After retiring from football, Butkus went on to have a successful career in broadcasting, working as a color commentator for NFL games on CBS and NBC. He also appeared in several movies and TV shows, including the 1977 film “Semi-Tough” and the 1980s sitcom “My Two Dads.”

Butkus has been married to his wife, Helen, since 1963. The couple has three children together and currently resides in Southern California.

Net Worth

As of 2021, Butkus’s net worth is estimated to be around $8 million. Much of his wealth comes from his successful football career and his subsequent work as a broadcaster and actor.

Diseases

Butkus has not publicly disclosed any major health issues in recent years.

Conclusion

Dick Butkus is a true legend of American football, known for his toughness, skill, and intimidating presence on the field. Despite a relatively short career due to injuries, he is widely regarded as one of the greatest linebackers of all time and has been honored with numerous awards and accolades throughout his life. After retiring from football, he went on to have a successful career in broadcasting and acting and has been happily married to his wife for over 50 years.

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