Dick Butkus
Often stated to be the most feared defender in football, the Bears got lucky when they were able to draft Butkus in the first round of the 1965 NFL draft. He became an icon on the Bears. Other teams were afraid to play the Bears because of what Butkus would do to them.
If you watch any of the old films from Butkus’ era, you will see he played like a madman. He was always knocking players down, tackling them full force and making plays all over the field. By today’s standards, a lot of what Butkus did would be illegal. Not only would flags be thrown but he would be disqualified for some of the things he did.
That’s what made football back in the 60’s fun.
Butkus was a bit of a bulldozer at linebacker but was also one of the most athletic linebackers of his time. He could do some finesse things and it shows on the tape that you watch.
Altogether, Butkus was named to eight Pro Bowls. He was enshrined in the Hall of Fame in 1979.