Matt Suhey, Legendary Bears Fullback, Passes Away at 68
Matt Suhey, the renowned fullback for the Chicago Bears and a Super Bowl champion, has died at the age of 68. He passed away peacefully in his sleep over the Labor Day weekend, although the cause of his death has not been disclosed.
Suhey became a beloved figure in Chicago during his decade-long NFL career, playing every game for the Bears. He was known for his versatility, contributing in various ways: running, receiving, and providing crucial pass protection. Many fans, however, will likely remember him most for his crucial role as the lead blocker for the legendary Walter Payton.
The bond between Suhey and Payton extended beyond the football field; they were close friends, with Payton even serving as the godfather to Suhey’s son, Scott.
Referring to Payton during the Bears’ legendary 1985 season, Suhey once remarked, “How can anybody compare to him? Some may be faster, but nobody’s stronger or better at all facets of the game. It might be nice to carry the ball more and see my name in the stats. But if Walter scores a touchdown, and I make a good block, that’s the name of the game.”
He added, “He’s a very good friend of mine. I enjoy his personality. You never know what to expect. On the field, you’re always second to him. But he never makes you feel that way.”
Suhey’s teammates expressed their shock and sadness over his passing. Safety Gary Fencik remembered him as “a level-headed guy,” noting that he was a valuable teammate whose presence often reflected the offense’s mood. “This was a real shock to all of us,” he added.
Bears Hall of Fame defensive tackle Dan Hampton recalled Suhey fondly, stating, “I am shocked. Quality of character, there was no one superior to Matt. He was truly a gentleman. He wasn’t like a bunch of the rest of us who were cutting up. He was responsible. He played around with Walter and everyone else, but he wasn’t a guy going out to the bar after the game. He was a businessman.”
Drafted by the Bears as a second-round pick from Penn State in 1980, Suhey made a significant impact on the field. He showcased remarkable durability, playing every game in seven of his ten seasons. Over his career, Suhey accumulated 2,946 rushing yards and 20 rushing touchdowns. Additionally, he recorded 260 receptions for 2,113 receiving yards.
