Former president Barack Obama is an outspoken Chicago sports fan. He often comments on what is happening in the sporting world but has made it clear that his allegiance is with the city of Chicago. Yesterday, a Chicago Bears legend, Dick Butkus, passed away and Obama took to social media to give his thoughts.
Barack Obama On Dick Butkus
Obama took to X and had this to say.
“In Chicago, Dick Butkus was football. Thinking of his family today, and all the Bears fans who loved watching one of the best to ever play the game”
Butkus has been a fan favorite not just in Chicago but in the entire NFL. When people think of the stereotypical football player of the past, it is likely Butkus. His no. 51 jersey is retired by the Bears organization and he made two all-decades teams thanks to him playing in the 1960s and 1970s. He had no shortage of accolades for his playing career and also has quite an extensive television and movie career.
Career With The Bears
Butkus spent nine years with the Bears. He totaled 22 career interceptions and 27 fumble recoveries which put him second in total takeaways in franchise history. The linebacker was a five-time first-team All-Pro and an eight-time Pro Bowler. As was the custom in the past, he played other roles on the team. Butkus kicked extra points and occasionally ran back kickoffs. His massive 6-foot-3 and 245-pound frame made him one of the most intimidating tacklers in the league and he still is regarded as one of the most feared players ever to grace the field.
Barack Obama, like many Chicagoans, is mourning the loss of franchise legend Dick Butkus. No doubt that the Bears will find some way to honor him in the seasons to come.
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