Legends of the Soldier Field: Top 10 Chicago Bears of All Time
You’re probably aware of the Chicago Bears’ storied past, but have you ever considered which players truly define this iconic team? The list of top ten Bears is a fascinating mix of relentless rushers, powerhouse defenders, and strategic masterminds.
As you sift through names like Walter Payton and Dick Butkus, you’ll find yourself pondering what exactly sets these individuals apart from other gridiron greats.
Before you decide who belongs among the Top 10 Chicago Bears of All Time, take a moment to reflect on what makes Soldier Field the backdrop for so many unforgettable moments. These players’ achievements aren’t just stats—they’re stories that continue to shape the legacy of the Bears.
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Table of Contents
1. Walter Payton
- Years played for the Chicago Bears: 1975-1987
- Position: Running back
- Height/Weight: 5’10” / 200 lbs
Walter Payton, affectionately known as “Sweetness,” was the heart and soul of the Chicago Bears for his entire 13-year NFL career.
Revered for his incredible work ethic, versatility, and relentless playing style, Payton became the NFL’s all-time leading rusher with 16,726 yards. His ability to run, catch, and even throw the ball made him a triple threat on the field.
The crowning moment of his career came in 1985 when he led the Bears to a Super Bowl victory. Payton’s legacy extends beyond the gridiron, as he became a symbol of perseverance and philanthropy.
- Accolades:
- NFL Most Valuable Player (1977)
- NFL Offensive Player of the Year (1977)
- Super Bowl XX Champion
- 9× Pro Bowl selection
- Inducted into the Pro Football Hall of Fame (1993)
- Chicago Bears all-time leading rusher
- NFL 100th Anniversary All-Time Team selection
2. Dick Butkus
- Years played for Chicago Bears: 1965-1973
- Position: Linebacker
- Height/Weight: 6’3″, 245 lbs
Dick Butkus, a relentless force in the NFL, was synonymous with the rugged toughness of the Chicago Bears defense during his nine seasons with the team. Known for his physical, intimidating play style, Butkus struck fear into the hearts of opposing offenses.
His ability to anticipate plays and his ferocious tackles made him a central figure on the field. Despite battling injuries throughout his career, Butkus’ leadership and tenacity left an indelible mark on the Bears’ legacy, embodying the grit and passion that became the standard for linebackers.
- Accolades:
- 8× Pro Bowl selections (1965–1972)
- 5× First-team All-Pro (1965, 1967-1970)
- NFL 75th Anniversary All-Time Team
- Pro Football Hall of Fame inductee (1979)
- Jersey No. 51 retired by the Chicago Bears
3. Gale Sayers
- Years played for Chicago Bears: 1965-1971
- Position: Running back
- Height/Weight: 6’0″ / 198 lbs
Gale Sayers, known as the “Kansas Comet,” was one of the most electrifying athletes to ever suit up for the Chicago Bears. Despite a career shortened by injuries, Sayers dazzled fans with his extraordinary speed and agility, revolutionizing the role of a running back.
His rookie season in 1965 remains legendary, as he scored a remarkable six touchdowns in a single game against the San Francisco 49ers. Sayers’ seamless blend of athleticism and grace left an indelible mark on the NFL, and his commitment to the Bears often transcended his time on the field. A revered figure, his contributions continue to resonate deeply within the team’s history.
- Accolades:
- Inducted into Pro Football Hall of Fame (1977)
- 4× Pro Bowl selection (1965-1967, 1969)
- 5× First-team All-Pro (1965-1969)
- NFL Rookie of the Year (1965)
- NFL rushing yards leader (1966, 1969)
4. Mike Ditka
- Years played for team: 1961–1966
- Position: Tight End
- Height/Weight: 6’3″, 228 lbs
Mike Ditka redefined the tight end position with his rugged playing style and standout performances for the Chicago Bears in the early 1960s. Known for his exceptional blocking ability and aggressive pass-catching skills, Ditka was a force on the field, making him an integral part of the Bears’ offensive line-up.
His leadership and grit on the gridiron also foreshadowed his future success as a head coach. In his rookie season alone, Ditka logged 1,076 receiving yards and 12 touchdowns, setting the tone for his impactful career. He left a profound legacy with the Bears, not only for his athletic achievements but also for his passionate approach to the game.
- Accolades:
- 5× Pro Bowl selection (1961–1965)
- 2× First-team All-Pro (1963, 1964)
- NFL Rookie of the Year (1961)
- Inducted into the Pro Football Hall of Fame (1988)
- Chicago Bears No. 89 retired
5. Sid Luckman
- Years played for the team: 1939-1950
- Position: Quarterback
- Height/Weight: 6’0″, 197 lbs
Sid Luckman is widely regarded as one of the most influential quarterbacks in Chicago Bears history. Playing from 1939 to 1950, Luckman revolutionized the position with his proficiency in the T-formation, guiding the Bears to dominance in the 1940s.
His strong arm and football intelligence allowed him to control games, making him a pivotal figure in the team’s offensive strategy.
One of his most memorable performances came during the 1940 NFL Championship Game, where he led the Bears to a resounding 73-0 victory over the Washington Redskins, a record margin that still stands. His legacy is marked by his leadership and innovation in the quarterback position.
- Accolades:
- NFL Champion (1940, 1941, 1943, 1946)
- NFL MVP (1943)
- Four-time Pro Bowl selection
- NFL record for most touchdown passes in a game (tied with seven)
- Pro Football Hall of Fame inductee (1965)
6. Brian Urlacher
- Years Played for Chicago Bears: 2000-2012
- Position: Middle Linebacker
- Height/Weight: 6’4″ / 258 lbs
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Brian Urlacher was a dominant force in the heart of the Chicago Bears’ defense for over a decade. Known for his exceptional athleticism and keen football instincts, Urlacher redefined the role of the middle linebacker with his ability to both stop the run and drop back into coverage.
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His leadership on the field was instrumental in leading the Bears to the Super Bowl XLI. Urlacher was the defensive cornerstone of a unit that consistently ranked among the top in the NFL. His impact on the team was immeasurable, and he remains an iconic figure in Bears history.
- Accolades:
- 8× Pro Bowl selections
- 5× First-team All-Pro
- NFL Defensive Player of the Year (2005)
- NFL Defensive Rookie of the Year (2000)
- Pro Football Hall of Fame (Inducted in 2018)
- Chicago Bears No. 54 retired
7. Red Grange
- Years Played: 1925, 1929-1934
- Position: Halfback
- Height/Weight: 6’0″, 180 lbs
Red Grange, known as “The Galloping Ghost,” was an iconic figure for the Chicago Bears and a key catalyst in popularizing the NFL.
Grange’s speed, agility, and penchant for thrilling plays made him a fan favorite and one of the first true football superstars. His debut game helped the Bears draw massive crowds, revolutionizing the business aspect of the league.
Grange’s fearless style and ability to shift games in his team’s favor solidified his legacy and marked him as one of the game’s early legends, contributing greatly to the NFL’s burgeoning popularity.
- Accolades:
- Inducted into Pro Football Hall of Fame (1963)
- Named to the NFL 1920s All-Decade Team
- Retired number: 77 by the Chicago Bears
- NFL Championship (1933)
8. Richard Dent
- Years Played for the Team: 1983-1993, 1995
- Position: Defensive End
- Height/Weight: 6’5″, 265 lbs
Richard Dent was a cornerstone of the Chicago Bears’ formidable defense during the 1980s, particularly noted for his exceptional pass-rushing abilities. As a member of the famed “Monsters of the Midway,” Dent’s relentless pursuit of quarterbacks was instrumental in the Bears’ success, including their memorable Super Bowl XX victory.
Known for his athleticism and strategic mind, Dent’s most significant moment came when he earned MVP honors in Super Bowl XX after a dominant performance against the New England Patriots. His legacy is etched in the annals of the Bears’ history as a relentless defender and game-changer on the field.
- Accolades:
- Super Bowl XX Champion and MVP
- Four-time Pro Bowler (1984, 1985, 1990, 1993)
- Two-time First-team All-Pro (1984, 1985)
- 1985 NFL Defensive Player of the Year
- Chicago Bears Ring of Honor
- Inducted into the Pro Football Hall of Fame in 2011
- Led the NFL in sacks in 1985 with 17 sacks
9. George McAfee
- Years played for team: 1940-1941, 1945-1950
- Position: Halfback
- Height/Weight: 6’0″, 178 lbs
George McAfee, known as “One-Play McAfee,” was a dynamic force for the Chicago Bears, renowned for his agility and speed. Playing as a halfback, McAfee’s elusiveness made him a potent offensive weapon during his tenure with the Bears.
His playing style was characterized by his ability to break for long gains, making substantial impact with single-game-changing plays.
Throughout his career, he helped lead the Bears to four NFL Championships, becoming a crucial asset in their storied success. McAfee’s influence extended beyond his on-field performances, symbolizing the spirit of the team’s offensive prowess in the 1940s.
- Accolades:
- Inducted into Pro Football Hall of Fame (1966)
- Four-time NFL Champion (1940, 1941, 1946, 1947)
- NFL All-Decade Team for the 1940s
- Chicago Bears No. 5 jersey retired
- Contributed in four NFL Championship victories
10. Dan Hampton
- Years Played for the Team: 1979-1990
- Position: Defensive Tackle / Defensive End
- Height/Weight: 6’5″ / 264 lbs
Dan Hampton, nicknamed “Danimal,” was a cornerstone of the famed 1985 Chicago Bears defense. Renowned for his powerful presence on the defensive line, Hampton’s versatility allowed him to dominate both at defensive tackle and defensive end.
His aggressive playing style and relentless work ethic made him a nightmare for opposing offenses. A key player in the Bears’ Super Bowl XX victory, Hampton’s leadership and tenacity cemented his legacy in Chicago sports lore.
Beyond statistics, his influence resonated through his inspiring commitment to the game and the team, enhancing the overall defensive unit’s performance during his tenure.
- Accolades:
- Pro Football Hall of Fame Inductee (2002)
- 4× Pro Bowl selection (1980, 1982, 1984, 1985)
- First-team All-Pro (1984, 1986)
- NFL 1980s All-Decade Team
- Super Bowl Champion (XX)
