SAD NEWS: Jared Goff Bursts Into Tears Remembering NFL Legend Steve “Mongo” McMichael

The NFL community continues to grieve the loss of Pro Football Hall of Famer Steve “Mongo” McMichael, with Detroit Lions quarterback Jared Goff joining the many players paying emotional tribute to the Chicago Bears legend. McMichael, who passed away at 67 after a valiant struggle with ALS, was a linchpin of the 1985 Super Bowl-winning Bears and a towering figure whose influence reached far beyond the gridiron. His death has left a profound impact, particularly on players like Goff, who grew up idolizing the iconic defensive tackle.

In an emotional moment during a post-practice interview, Goff broke down in tears as he reflected on McMichael’s role as an inspiration in his life and career. The typically composed quarterback struggled to hold back his emotions as he spoke about the personal significance of the man he called his “idol.”

“He was my idol,” Goff said, his voice shaking. “He used to tell me—not directly, but through his stories and the way he played—‘You’ve got to give it everything, every single moment.’ I watched his games, studied how he carried himself. Mongo’s intensity, his fire… it shaped how I approach this game.”

McMichael’s relentless drive and commanding presence on the defensive line left a lasting impression on Goff, who, despite playing a different position, drew inspiration from the Bears star’s tenacity. “He wasn’t just a great player; he was a force,” Goff said. “He showed me that it’s about more than skill—it’s about passion, about fighting through anything. That’s what I carry with me.”

Diagnosed with ALS in 2021, McMichael faced his illness with the same grit that defined his playing days, though his health deteriorated in recent years. His 2024 induction into the Pro Football Hall of Fame was a celebrated milestone, though his condition prevented him from attending the ceremony in Canton, Ohio. McMichael’s family used his platform to raise awareness for ALS, inspiring widespread support for the cause.

Goff, who has led the Lions to new heights, said McMichael’s resilience in the face of adversity motivated him to persevere through challenges in his own career. “Seeing how he fought, how he stayed strong through everything… it’s hard to lose someone like that,” Goff said, pausing to wipe away tears. “Mongo meant so much to so many of us.”

McMichael’s larger-than-life personality, from his dominance on the field to his memorable stints in professional wrestling, made him a beloved figure in Chicago and beyond. Tributes from across the NFL highlight the enduring legacy of “Mongo,” with players like Goff carrying forward his spirit. For the Lions quarterback, the loss feels deeply personal.

“I never got to meet him,” Goff admitted, his voice heavy with emotion. “But I felt like I knew him through his game, his heart. I just wish I could’ve told him how much he meant to me as a kid dreaming of this league.”

As the Lions prepare for their upcoming games, Goff pledged to honor McMichael’s memory by playing with the same determination that defined the Bears legend’s career. “I’m going to play every game like Mongo would’ve wanted,” he said. “All heart, all fight.”

The passing of Steve “Mongo” McMichael marks a somber moment for the NFL, but his legacy endures in players like Jared Goff, who embody the passion and resilience that made him a Hall of Famer. Fans and players alike join Goff in celebrating the life of a true legend whose impact will resonate for generations.