The Chicago Bears are mourning Matt Suhey, a key member of the championship-winning team, who passed away on Sunday. He was 68.
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The NFC North team confirmed the news on Sunday but did not provide a cause of death or any other details.
A second-round pick in the 1980 NFL Draft, Suhey spent his entire 10-year career with the Bears. He played in 148 games, starting 100, while working as both a running back and fullback.
Suhey rushed for 2,946 yards during his career, and he scored 20 rushing touchdowns. He also scored five touchdowns as a receiver. Suhey also played a major role in the 1985 season, which culminated in a Super Bowl win over the Patriots.
He scored the first Bears' first touchdown of the game and helped pave the way for the dominant 46-10 win.
RIP Matt Suhey 🕯️
Versatile #Bears Fullback of the 1980s
Scored #DaBears' first touchdown in Super Bowl XX
Could run, catch, even throw — and was Walter Payton's primary blocking back.
Suhey and Sweetness shared a special bond pic.twitter.com/B4PHIPu8Jm
— Kevin Gallagher (@KevG163) September 7, 2026
Of course, the veteran also served as a blocker for Walter Payton, who became the NFL's all-time leading rusher during his time in the Windy City.
"After we lost my dad in 1999, Matt became the biggest father figure I had," Jarrett Payton posted on social media on Monday. "When everything felt uncertain, he was there.
"My dad left him in charge and Matt never let that responsibility sit lightly. He protected our family. He looked after us. He made sure we were okay, year after year, without ever making it about himself. That is who he was.
"Their friendship showed me what real friendship looks like. Not the easy kind. The kind that lasts when the lights go off, when the stadium is empty, when life gets heavy. Brian's Song told the story of Piccolo and Sayers. Somebody needs to tell the story of 34 and 26.
"Two men who trusted each other completely. Two men who became brothers. I know (Walter Payton) was standing there waiting for him the second he got to heaven. I can see it. That smile. That hug. That reunion they both deserved.
"Our family is so thankful for the love he showed us over the years. The Payton family will continue to lift Donna, Joey, Allison, and Scotty up in prayer during this difficult time. Rest easy, Uncle Matt. We love you. We always will."
Matt Suhey passed away yesterday.
He was my dad’s closest friend. After we lost my dad in 1999, Matt became the biggest father figure I had. When everything felt uncertain, he was there. My dad left him in charge and Matt never let that responsibility sit lightly. He protected… pic.twitter.com/pN0I8zDTTz— Jarrett Payton (@paytonsun) September 7, 2026
