History of Dick Butkus in Timeline
Richard Marvin Butkus was an iconic American professional football linebacker known for his exceptional skill and intimidating presence on the field. Playing for the Chicago Bears from 1965 to 1973, Butkus was selected for eight Pro Bowls and named a first-team All-Pro five times. His peers twice acknowledged him as the NFL's Defensive Player of the Year, underscoring his impact and dominance in the sport. Beyond his football career, Butkus also worked as a sports commentator and actor, showcasing his versatility and charisma beyond the gridiron. His legacy as one of the greatest linebackers in NFL history remains influential, marked by his fierce tackling and relentless dedication to the game.
December 9, 1942: Birth of Dick Butkus
On December 9, 1942, Dick Butkus was born in Chicago. He would go on to have a legendary career as a football linebacker, commentator, and actor.
1959: Chicago Sun-Times High School Player of the Year
Dick Butkus's talent was evident even in high school. In 1959, he became the first junior to be named Chicago's high school player of the year by the Chicago Sun-Times.
1960: Butkus's Baseball Prowess
In the summer of 1960, before his illustrious football career took off, Dick Butkus showcased his athletic versatility as the starting catcher for a Chicago Park District baseball team. An article in the Daily Calumet even credits him with hitting a home run to center field.
1962: Named to All-Big Ten Conference Football Team
Dick Butkus received early recognition for his football skills in 1962 when he was named to the All-Big Ten Conference football team as a center.
1962: Impressive Tackle Record at Illinois
Throughout his college career at Illinois, Dick Butkus amassed an incredible 374 tackles, including 97 in 1962, highlighting his defensive prowess from the start.
1963: Married Helen Essenberg
Dick Butkus married his high school sweetheart, Helen Essenberg, in 1963 while they were both students at the University of Illinois.
1963: Unanimous All-American Selection
Dick Butkus's exceptional performance on the football field earned him unanimous All-American honors in 1963, a testament to his dominance.
1963: Heisman Trophy Candidate
Dick Butkus's talent as a lineman was evident when he finished sixth in the Heisman Trophy voting in 1963, a rare accomplishment for a defensive player.
1963: Rose Bowl Victory and Big Ten MVP
In 1963, Dick Butkus led the Illinois Fighting Illini to a victory in the Rose Bowl and was recognized as the Most Valuable Player in the Big Ten Conference.
1964: College Football's Lineman of the Year and Co-Captain
In 1964, Dick Butkus's exceptional skills were recognized with the title of College Football's Lineman of the Year, and he was also named co-captain of his team.
1964: Rose Bowl Victory with Illinois Fighting Illini
Dick Butkus was instrumental in leading the Illinois Fighting Illini to a victory in the 1964 Rose Bowl, showcasing his talent on a national stage.
1964: College Football Lineman of the Year
Dick Butkus received the prestigious title of College Football Lineman of the Year in 1964, a testament to his exceptional skills on the field.
1965: Start of NFL Career with the Chicago Bears
Dick Butkus began his NFL career in 1965, playing for his hometown team, the Chicago Bears. This marked the beginning of a remarkable nine-season run.
1965: Impressive Rookie Season with the Bears
Dick Butkus had a standout rookie season with the Chicago Bears in 1965, showcasing his ball-hawking abilities by intercepting passes and recovering fumbles, establishing himself as a defensive force.
1965: Drafted by the Chicago Bears
Dick Butkus was selected as the third overall pick in the 1965 NFL draft by the Chicago Bears, marking the start of his legendary NFL career.
1965: Drafted by Both NFL's Bears and AFL's Broncos
Dick Butkus's talent was highly sought after in 1965, as he was drafted by both the NFL's Chicago Bears and the AFL's Denver Broncos. His decision to sign with the Bears marked a significant victory for the NFL.
1966: Named to All-Pro Second Team
Dick Butkus continued to earn recognition for his performance, being named to the All-Pro second team in 1966.
1967: All-Pro Recognition Continues
Dick Butkus's consistent excellence on the field earned him continued All-Pro recognition in 1967.
1968: Further All-Pro Honors
Dick Butkus's performance in 1968 solidified his reputation as one of the league's top players, earning him further All-Pro honors.
1969: Scores First Career Points and Faces Career Challenges
In 1969, Dick Butkus scored his first career points with a safety and had a standout 25-tackle game. However, the Bears struggled with a 1-13 record, leading to Butkus considering his options with the team.
1969: All-Pro Recognition for Defensive Prowess
Dick Butkus's exceptional defensive skills were once again recognized in 1969 with another All-Pro selection.
1969: Intensifying the Rivalry with the Lions
In 1969, Butkus's rivalry with the Detroit Lions escalated after Lions rookie Altie Taylor publicly questioned his abilities. Butkus responded with an aggressive play in their next encounter, further fueling the competition between the teams.
1969: NFL Defensive Player of the Year
Dick Butkus was recognized as the NFL Defensive Player of the Year in 1969 by the NEA. This award, determined by votes from fellow players, highlighted his exceptional skill and impact on the field.
September 1970: "The Most Feared Man in the Game"
In September 1970, Dick Butkus was featured on the cover of Sports Illustrated with the caption "The Most Feared Man in the Game." This honor reflected his reputation as a fierce and dominant player.
1970: Signs Contract Extension with the Bears
Despite the challenges of the previous season, Dick Butkus signed a multi-year contract extension with the Chicago Bears in 1970, securing a significant salary increase.
1970: Continued All-Pro Success
Dick Butkus's dominance on the field continued into the 1970 season, where he maintained his All-Pro status.
1970: Starred in Super Bowl IV Commercial for Prestone Antifreeze
Dick Butkus's imposing presence and football fame were put to use in a Super Bowl IV commercial for Prestone antifreeze in 1970, marking one of the earliest instances of successful celebrity endorsements in Super Bowl advertising.
1971: Portrayed Himself in "Brian's Song"
Dick Butkus took on a poignant role in 1971, portraying himself in the critically acclaimed television movie "Brian's Song," a touching story about the friendship between Chicago Bears teammates Brian Piccolo and Gale Sayers.
1971: A Memorable Season of Triumphs and Challenges
The 1971 season saw Butkus undergo preventive surgery on his right knee, an injury dating back to high school. Despite this, he delivered standout performances, including a game-winning touchdown reception against the Washington Redskins. This season exemplified Butkus's resilience and ability to excel despite physical challenges.
1972: Release of Controversial Memoir "Stop-Action"
In 1972, Butkus released his memoir "Stop-Action," sparking controversy for its critical remarks about the Detroit Lions organization. This event ignited a war of words between Butkus, Lions players, and the media.
1973: End of Butkus's NFL Career
After a successful nine-season career with the Chicago Bears, Dick Butkus retired from professional football in 1973.
1973: Butkus Scores First and Only Touchdown
In a game against the Houston Oilers in 1973, Butkus recovered a fumble in the end zone, securing the only touchdown of his career. This play was not without controversy, as Houston tight end Mack Alston accused Butkus of influencing the officials' call.
May 1974: Legal Dispute with the Bears
Following his retirement in May 1974, Butkus entered a legal battle with the Chicago Bears over the terms of his contract, particularly concerning his knee injury and promised medical care. This dispute led to a five-year period of estrangement between Butkus and Bears owner George Halas.
May 1974: Retirement Due to Knee Injury
In May 1974, at the age of 31, Dick Butkus made the difficult decision to retire from professional football due to a persistent right knee injury. This marked a significant turning point in his life and career.
1974: Appeared in "The Longest Yard"
Dick Butkus began his acting career, appearing in the film "The Longest Yard" in 1974.
1975: Appeared in "Cry, Onion!"
Dick Butkus continued his acting career, appearing in the film "Cry, Onion!" in 1975.
1976: Appeared in "Mother, Jugs & Speed" and "Gus"
In 1976, Dick Butkus took on roles in two films: "Mother, Jugs & Speed" and "Gus."
1978: Appeared in "Superdome"
Dick Butkus furthered his acting career, taking on a role in the film "Superdome" in 1978.
1979: Induction into the Pro Football Hall of Fame
Dick Butkus achieved one of football's highest honors in 1979 when he was inducted into the Pro Football Hall of Fame.
1979: Induction into the Pro Football Hall of Fame
Dick Butkus achieved the highest honor in professional football with his induction into the Pro Football Hall of Fame in 1979, his first year of eligibility, solidifying his legacy as one of the greatest to ever play the game.
1982: Appeared in "Cass Malloy"
Dick Butkus showcased his acting versatility in 1982 by portraying Officer Alvin Dimsky in the CBS pilot episode of "Cass Malloy," which later evolved into the syndicated sitcom "She's the Sheriff."
1983: Induction into the College Football Hall of Fame
Dick Butkus was honored for his exceptional collegiate football career with his induction into the College Football Hall of Fame in 1983.
1983: Appeared in "Cracking Up"
Dick Butkus's acting career continued with a role in the film "Cracking Up" in 1983.
1983: Induction into the College Football Hall of Fame
Dick Butkus's contributions to college football were solidified in 1983 when he was inducted into the College Football Hall of Fame.
1984: Appeared in "Johnny Dangerously"
In 1984, Dick Butkus appeared in the film "Johnny Dangerously," showcasing his acting talents in a comedic role.
1985: Became Pitchman for Echo Tools
Dick Butkus expanded his endorsement portfolio in 1985 by becoming a pitchman for Echo Tools, a manufacturer of outdoor power equipment.
1985: Returned to Bears as Radio Broadcaster
Dick Butkus rejoined the Chicago Bears in 1985, this time as a color analyst on radio broadcasts, partnering with play-by-play announcer Wayne Larrivee and former St. Louis Cardinals quarterback Jim Hart.
1985: Butkus Award Created
In 1985, the Downtown Athletic Club of Orlando, Florida established the Butkus Award to recognize the most outstanding linebacker at the high school, college, and professional levels.
1986: Appeared in "Hamburger: The Motion Picture"
In 1986, Dick Butkus added to his filmography with a role in the comedy "Hamburger: The Motion Picture."
1987: Appeared in "The Stepford Children"
Dick Butkus's acting career continued in 1987 with a role in the made-for-television horror film "The Stepford Children."
1988: Joined CBS's "The NFL Today"
In 1988, Dick Butkus transitioned from radio to television, joining CBS's pregame show, "The NFL Today," as an analyst, taking over the position previously held by Jimmy "The Greek" Snyder.
1989: Continued as Analyst on "The NFL Today"
Dick Butkus continued his role as an analyst on CBS's "The NFL Today" in 1989, providing insights into the game he had mastered.
1990: Appeared in "Spontaneous Combustion" and "Gremlins 2: The New Batch"
In 1990, Dick Butkus appeared in two films: the thriller "Spontaneous Combustion" and the comedy "Gremlins 2: The New Batch."
1991: Appeared in "Necessary Roughness"
Dick Butkus appeared in the sports comedy "Necessary Roughness" in 1991.
October 31, 1994: Chicago Bears Retire Butkus's Number 51 Jersey
On October 31, 1994, the Chicago Bears paid tribute to Dick Butkus's immense contributions to the franchise by retiring his No. 51 jersey during a ceremony at Soldier Field, cementing his place in the team's history.
1994: Named to NFL 75th Anniversary All-Time Team
In 1994, Dick Butkus's legacy was honored with his selection to the NFL 75th Anniversary All-Time Team, a testament to his enduring impact on the sport.
1999: Ranked Among Top NFL Players
Dick Butkus was recognized for his exceptional career by being named the ninth-best player in NFL history by The Sporting News in 1999.
1999: Appeared in "Any Given Sunday"
Dick Butkus's acting career continued in 1999 with a role in Oliver Stone's football drama "Any Given Sunday."
1999: Named to Walter Camp Football Foundation's All-Century Team
Dick Butkus's exceptional college football career earned him a place on the Walter Camp Football Foundation's prestigious All-Century Team in 1999, recognizing him as one of the greatest college players of the 20th century.
August 2001: Underwent Quintuple Bypass Surgery
In August 2001, Dick Butkus underwent a significant medical procedure, a quintuple bypass surgery, to address blockages in his arteries.
2001: Served as XFL's Director of Competition
Dick Butkus took on a behind-the-scenes role in the short-lived XFL in 2001, serving as the league's director of competition.
2002: Experienced Health Issues Related to Football Injuries
Around 2002, Dick Butkus began experiencing nerve damage in his spine, leading to foot drop and decreased hand strength, a consequence of the physical toll his football career had taken on his body.
2002: Appeared in "Teddy Bears' Picnic"
In 2002, Dick Butkus appeared in the British comedy film "Teddy Bears' Picnic."
2004: Sculpture Unveiling at Soldier Field
In 2004, a sculpture honoring Dick Butkus, George Halas, and seven other Chicago Bears legends was unveiled at Soldier Field, a lasting tribute to their significant contributions to the franchise's history.
2005: Coached Montour High School Football Team
Dick Butkus stepped into the role of head football coach for Montour High School in Allegheny County, Pennsylvania, as part of the ESPN reality series "Bound for Glory" in 2005.
2007: Butkus Involved in Legal Dispute over Butkus Award
In 2007, Dick Butkus took legal action against the Downtown Athletic Club, seeking control over the Butkus Award. After a year-long legal battle, the club relinquished the rights to the award.
2008: Ranked #1 Most Feared Tackler
Dick Butkus earned the top spot on NFL's 'Top 10: Most Feared Tacklers' list when the episode aired in 2008, reflecting his reputation for hard-hitting defense.
2008: Inducted into Chicagoland Sports Hall of Fame
In 2008, Dick Butkus's contributions to Chicago sports were formally recognized when he was inducted into the Chicagoland Sports Hall of Fame.
2009: Named NFL Network's Most Feared Tackler of All Time
In 2009, Dick Butkus received recognition for his exceptional tackling skills when the NFL Network named him the most feared tackler of all time, solidifying his legacy as one of the most formidable defensive players in football history.
2009: Named NFL Network's Most Feared Tackler
In 2009, the NFL Network recognized Dick Butkus's exceptional tackling abilities by naming him the most feared tackler of all time.
2010: Top 10 NFL Player
In 2010, Dick Butkus's impact on the game was further solidified when the NFL Network ranked him as the tenth-best player in its 'The Top 100: NFL's Greatest Players' series.
August 24, 2013: Inducted into National Lithuanian American Hall of Fame
On August 24, 2013, Dick Butkus was granted a special honor in recognition of his Lithuanian heritage: induction into the National Lithuanian American Hall of Fame.
2014: Ranked Eighth-Best Player by New York Daily News
The New York Daily News recognized Butkus as the eighth-best player in NFL history in 2014, further cementing his place among the game's greats.
2016: Inaugural Inductee into the Illinois Athletics Hall of Fame
In 2016, Dick Butkus received the distinction of being an inaugural inductee into the Illinois Athletics Hall of Fame, a testament to his enduring legacy and impact on the university's athletics program.
November 2017: University of Illinois Announces Butkus Statue
In November 2017, the University of Illinois revealed plans to honor Butkus with a statue on campus, overlooking a planned football performance center. This tribute recognized his lasting impact on the university's football program.
2017: Ranked Third Greatest Linebacker of All Time
NFL senior analyst Gil Brandt ranked Dick Butkus as the third greatest linebacker of all time in 2017, placing him behind Derrick Thomas and Lawrence Taylor.
2018: Awarded Order of Lincoln
Dick Butkus received the Order of Lincoln, the highest honor bestowed by the state of Illinois, in 2018.
2019: Named to NFL 100th Anniversary All-Time Team
In 2019, Dick Butkus received one of the highest honors in football when he was named to the NFL 100th Anniversary All-Time Team.
October 5, 2023: Death of Dick Butkus
Dick Butkus passed away on October 5, 2023. He left behind a lasting impact on the world of football and beyond.
2023: Luke Butkus Became Offensive Line Coach for Green Bay Packers
Dick Butkus's nephew, Luke Butkus, continued his coaching journey in 2023, becoming the offensive line coach for the Green Bay Packers.