This lot is closed for bidding. Bidding ended on 4/28/2013
The third pick of the 1965 NFL Draft, Dick Butkus was arguably, for ten Pro Bowl-warranting campaigns,
the most panic-inspiring athlete in all of sports. Butkus’ Doberman-like patrol of the gridiron was
familiar to Windy City faithful long spoiled by decades of dominant defenders. The 6’3”, 245 lb. middle
linebacker wreaked an unprecedented havoc, a style of play that was simply the meanest, nastiest, and
fiercest ever seen. Unfortunately for the Chicago Bears, the team was unable to capitalize on possessing
such a once-in-a-lifetime force, missing post-season play throughout Butkus’ nine-year tenure. Still, Bears
followers piled into Chicago stadiums to witness Butkus’ skill on the defensive side of the ball. Presented
is a Chicago Bears game jersey worn by the club’s most famous “Monster of the Midway” during the
memorable 1972 regular season.
On the left front tail is the “Wilson” manufacturer’s tag with wash instructions and jersey size “XL”. Player
number “51” appears on the front, back and on both sleeves. Player name “BUTKUS” appears across the
back on a navy blue nameplate. All numbers and letters are done in white on orange tackle twill. The jersey
is properly tagged, completely original and unaltered, and shows the kind of outstanding use you would
expect from one of the most physically dominant and fearsome linebackers of all-time. No less than eight
team repairs are evident. A sublime Butkus gamer that mirrors the character of the man who wore it.
LOA from MEARS (A10).