The Chicago Bears honored former defensive tackle and newly inducted Pro Football Hall of Famer Steve McMichael during the team’s home opener on Sept. 8 at Soldier Field.
Three days earlier, McMichael he was honored by the National Football Players Fathers Association. The new vice president of that group is Orland Park Fire Chief Michael Schofield. His son — also named Michael — played 10 years in the NFL before retiring after the 2023 season.
The elder Schofield joined Curtis Randle El in presenting McMichael with a NFPFA shirt at McMichael’s Homer Glen home. McMichael, who has ALS, is confined to his home.
He is a member of the Pro Football Hall of Fame Class of 2024, the members of which were inducted in August.
“I think he enjoys people coming over, but he can’t communicate,” Schofield said. “He’ll follow you with his eyes. When I talked to his wife, Misty, she said he liked people around him.”
McMichael has always been a good example for younger players, Schofield said.
“We try to mentor young players and future players,” he added. “Steve has done that through his public fight over ALS. He never stops. He fought to stay alive going into the Hall of Fame and he’s still going.
“He’s always been a fighter. From football to wrestling to running for mayor of Romeoville and moving to Homer Glen, he’s always been very competitive. He’s an inspiration to people.”