Dan Hampton
Inducted:
2002
Player Stats
6 ft 5 in (1.96 m)
264 lb (120 kg)
Born:
September 19, 1957
Oklahoma City, Oklahoma, U.S.
Position:
Defensive tackle
College:
Arkansas (1975–1978)
Dan Hampton was a cornerstone of the Chicago Bears’ feared defense of the 1980s, renowned for his strength, toughness, and relentless play on the defensive line. Nicknamed “Danimal” for his aggressive style, Hampton was equally effective against the run and as a pass rusher, making him one of the most versatile linemen of his era. Drafted by the Bears in the first round of the 1979 NFL Draft, he spent his entire 12-year career in Chicago, helping to define the identity of the team’s dominant defense.
A key member of the legendary 1985 Bears squad, Hampton played a vital role in their Super Bowl XX victory, where Chicago’s defense is still remembered as one of the greatest of all time. Despite battling numerous injuries throughout his career, he earned four Pro Bowl selections and was consistently respected for his leadership and determination. Inducted into the Pro Football Hall of Fame in 2002, Hampton’s legacy remains central to Bears history.
Hampton's Awards and Honors
- Super Bowl champion (XX)
- First-team All-Pro (1984)
- 4× Second-team All-Pro (1982, 1985, 1986, 1988)
- 4× Pro Bowl (1980, 1982, 1984, 1985)
- NFL 1980s All-Decade Team
- PFWA All-Rookie Team (1979)
- George Halas Award (1991)
- 100 Greatest Bears of All-Time
NFL Records
- Integral member of the 1985 Bears defense, ranked as one of the greatest single-season defenses in NFL history
- One of the few defensive linemen to be named All-Pro at both defensive tackle and defensive end
NFL Teams
Chicago Bears (1979–1990)
NFL Draft:
1979: 1st round, 4th pick
Chicago Bears
Number Worn:
99
NFL Stats
Seasons:
12 (1979–1990)
Games Played:
157
Sacks:
57
Fumble Recoveries:
10
Safeties:
1
