Dick Butkus Career Overview

Full Name: Richard Marvin Butkus
Date of Birth: December 9, 1942
Position: Linebacker (LB)
Team: Chicago Bears (CHI)
Career Duration: 1965 - 1973

Career Highlights and Accomplishments

• Pro Bowl Selections: 8-time Pro Bowl selection (1965-1972)
• First-Team All-Pro: 5-time First-Team All-Pro (1969-1972)
• Second-Team All-Pro: 1-time Second-Team All-Pro (1965)
• NFL Defensive Rookie of the Year: 1965
• NFL 1960s All-Decade Team: Member of the All-Decade Team
• Pro Football Hall of Fame: Inducted in 1979
• Chicago Bears All-Time Team: Named to the franchise's All-Time Team
• Jersey Number: 51 retired by the Chicago Bears

Career Summary

Dick Butkus is widely regarded as one of the greatest linebackers in NFL history. He played for the Chicago Bears throughout his entire professional career, from 1965 to
1973. Known for his ferocious playing style, Butkus was a dominant force on the field, recognized for his tackling ability, intelligence, and leadership. During his career, Butkus was instrumental in transforming the linebacker position, setting a high standard for future generations. He was known not only for his physical play but also for his ability to read offenses, often anticipating plays before they occurred. Despite the Bears' struggles during some seasons of his career, Butkus's individual accomplishments garnered him numerous accolades, including multiple Pro Bowl and All-Pro selections. After retiring from professional football, he remained a prominent figure in sports, transitioning to acting and broadcasting. Dick Butkus's legacy continues to influence players today, and he remains a beloved figure in Chicago sports history.