(WBBM NEWSRADIO) -- Bears legend and Pro Football Hall of Fame inductee Dick Butkus has died at the age of 80.
The Chicago native died in his sleep overnight at his Malibu, California home, his family said in a prepared statement Thursday evening.
"Dick was the ultimate Bear, and one of the greatest players in NFL history," Bears chairman George McCaskey said in a statement. "He was Chicago's son. He exuded what our great city is about and, not coincidently, what George Halas looked for in a player: toughness, smarts, instincts, passion and leadership."
Butkus, a linebacker, played nine NFL seasons and 119 career games, all with the Bears. He was inducted into the Pro Football Hall of Fame in 1979, his first year on the ballot. Butkus attended the University of Illinois from 1962-'64 and was also inducted into the College Football Hall of Fame.
Butkus earned the reputation as one of the most feared players in NFL history.
"The only reason I was the most feared tackler in football was because nobody got the message," Butkus said in 2019. "Nobody else tackled that way."
Butkus' career was cut short due to injuries. After retiring following the 1973 season, Butkus became a broadcaster and actor.
In recent years, Butkus further endeared himself to fans by developing into an entertaining presence on social media, including in collaborations with the Bears. He addressed fans from the sideline during the team's season opener on Sept. 10 at Soldier Field.
Butkus is survived by his wife, Helen, and their three children.
Contributing: 670 The Score's Chris Emma
