Mike Singletary
Inducted:
1998

Player Stats
6 ft 0 in (1.83 m)
230 lb (104 kg)
Born:
October 9, 1958
Houston, Texas, U.S.
Position:
Linebacker
College:
Baylor (1977–1980)
Mike Singletary became the emotional and tactical anchor of the Chicago Bears’ dominant defenses throughout the 1980s. Drafted in 1981, he quickly established himself as one of the league’s most instinctive and intense middle linebackers. Singletary’s leadership was central to the Bears’ identity, directing the famed 46 Defense with precision and toughness. His ability to diagnose plays, deliver physical tackles, and motivate teammates made him the heartbeat of Chicago’s Super Bowl XX championship team.
Singletary earned 10 Pro Bowl selections and was twice named NFL Defensive Player of the Year, reflecting his sustained excellence in one of the league’s most demanding positions. Known for his trademark wide-eyed focus, he became a symbol of discipline and preparation. After retiring, Singletary transitioned into coaching, adding to his long-standing influence on the game. He was inducted into the Pro Football Hall of Fame in 1998, cementing his legacy as one of football’s greatest defensive leaders.
Singletary's Awards and Honors
- Super Bowl champion (XX)
- 2× NFL Defensive Player of the Year (1985, 1988)
- 7× First-team All-Pro (1984–1989, 1991)
- Second-team All-Pro (1990)
- 10× Pro Bowl (1983–1992)
NFL Records
- NFL Man of the Year (1990)
- NFL 1980s All-Decade Team
- Leader of the famed 46 Defense, one of the best units in NFL history
- Started 12 straight seasons without missing a game
- Key defensive captain during the Bears’ dominant 1985 championship run
NFL Teams
As a player:
Chicago Bears (1981–1992)
As a coach:
Baltimore Ravens (2003–2004)
San Francisco 49ers (2005–2010)
Minnesota Vikings (2011–2013)
Los Angeles Rams (2016)
NFL Draft:
1981: 2nd round, 38th overall pick
Chicago Bears
Number Worn:
50
NFL Stats
As Player-
NFL Seasons:
12 (1981–1992)
Games Played:
179
Games Started:
172
Total tackles:
1,488
Interceptions:
7
Interception yards:
44
Fumble recoveries:
12
Sacks:
19
As Coach-
NFL:
18–22 (.450)
