Matt Suhey, Bears fullback and Walter Payton's best friend, dies at 68
USA Today • • sports
Key Points:
- Matt Suhey, fullback for the legendary 1985 Chicago Bears and close friend of Hall of Famer Walter Payton, died over Labor Day weekend at age 68; the cause of death has not been disclosed.
- Suhey played his entire 10-year NFL career with the Bears, appearing in 148 games and rushing for 2,946 yards and 20 touchdowns, while also being a key blocker and receiver.
- He was known for his unselfish play, often leading the way for Payton, who regarded Suhey as a protector and close confidant; Payton was also the godfather of Suhey's son.
- Suhey contributed to the Bears' only Super Bowl victory in 1985, scoring a touchdown in their 46-10 win over the New England Patriots, and helped block for multiple 1,100-yard rushers during his career.
- His passing adds to the recent losses of several members of the iconic '85 Bears team, considered one of the greatest in NFL history, which had a significant impact on Chicago's football legacy.
