Researchers Confirm Steve McMichael Had Posthumous CTE Diagnosis
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Chicago — Researchers at Boston University's Concussion and CTE Center announced Tuesday that Pro Football Hall of Famer Steve 'Mongo' McMichael was found to have stage-three chronic traumatic encephalopathy following postmortem brain examination; McMichael died in April 2025 at age 67 after a five-year battle with ALS. This week McMichael’s wife said she donated his brain to inspire research into a CTE–ALS connection; Boston University cited pathological evidence including TDP-43 inclusions, referenced prior 2021 studies showing elevated ALS risk among NFL players, and indicated findings will inform further neuropathological research and awareness efforts.
Prepared by Emily Rhodes and reviewed by editorial team.
Timeline of Events
- 1985: McMichael plays on the Chicago Bears team that wins the Super Bowl.
- 2021: Harvard Medical School and BU study reports NFL players have higher ALS risk.
- 2024: McMichael is inducted into the Pro Football Hall of Fame.
- April 2025: McMichael dies at 67 after a five-year battle with ALS.
- May 2025: Boston University researchers announce postmortem diagnosis of stage-three CTE in McMichael’s brain.
Why This Matters to You
McMichael's case highlights the potential link between football-related brain injuries and ALS. If you or a loved one plays football, it's crucial to understand the risks. Stay informed about the latest research and safety measures.
The Bottom Line
Football's glory can come with a heavy price. McMichael's postmortem CTE diagnosis underscores the need for more research into the long-term effects of the sport. If you know someone involved in football, it's worth forwarding this to keep them aware.
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Medical researchers, neurologists, and brain-injury advocacy groups benefit from McMichael’s donated brain, advancing CTE and ALS research.
Former NFL players, their families, and contact-sport communities suffered the consequences of repeated head trauma and neurodegenerative disease.
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