The Chicago Bears are back in play, and no one knows what kind of season to expect. While there is a lot of excitement about a rookie quarterback, it could still be a rough go for a little while.

For a distraction, it might be fun to take a historic look at some of the greatest Chicago Bears of all time.

 Greatest Chicago Bears

Walter Payton – Walter Payton, otherwise known as “Sweetness,” is widely considered one of the best football players of all time. Payton made the Pro Bowl nine times, and once held records for career rushing yards, touchdowns, carries, and yards from scrimmage. He is part of what made the 1985 Super Bowl champion-team so incredibly electrifying to watch.

Dick Butkus – Dick Butkus was known as one of the fiercest linebackers to ever play the game. In nine seasons, he made eight Pro Bowl teams, and was twice named the NFL’s Defensive Player of the Year. Through his career, he garnered 22 interceptions and recovered 27 fumbles. He struck fear in the heart of the offense.

Mike Ditka – Mike Ditka is well known in Chicago both as a player and a coach. The Hall of Famer played tight end with the Bears, Eagles, and Cowboys. He later returned to coach the Bears to the franchise’s only Super Bowl championship in 1985. “Iron Mike” as he is known, has become a fixture in the city of Chicago, for being the last coach to bring a championship to town.

Gale Sayers – Gale Sayers made a powerful impact on the city of Chicago in a relatively brief playing career. He was known for his agility on the field, and the ability to make defenders miss. Sayers is one of only four players to make the Hall of Fame without ever playing in a playoff game.

Mike Singletary – At middle linebacker, Mike Singletary became known as the heart of the Monsters of the Midway, one of the greatest defenses of all time. The Hall of Famer led the 1985 Bears to a 15-1 record and their only Super Bowl championship.