WCG Top 100 Bears players: 1-100

This is it. The final, complete list. But this won’t be the end of the content. Our writers are going to chime in with more on select players and other pieces. What does your top 100 list look like? Did we get it right or wrong?

Our writers, Sam Householder, Jeff Berckes, Lester A. Wiltfong Jr., Erik Duerrwaetcher, Jack Silverstein and Jacob Infante, all debated for months about our WCG Top 100 Chicago Bears Players list until we decided on the final group to present to you guys.

We’ll be rolling these out 10 at a time until we get to number one.

We decided to rank players based only on their Bears playing career, so coaching career and accomplishments with other teams were not considered.

For the full voting method and more on how this list came to be, click here.

1. Walter Payton, RB, 1975-1987, 9x Pro Bowls (1976-1980, 1983-1986), 5x 1st Team All-Pro (1976-77, 1980, 1984-85), 3x 2nd Team All-Pro (1978-79, 1986), NFL MVP (1977), Super Bowl XX Champion, Pro Football Hall of Fame Class of 1993, Jersey No. 34 retired

As if it could be anyone else. Widely considered the best all-around football player and certainly running back in history, Payton was a true three down back that lived up to his mantra of ‘never die easy.’ Payton retired as the NFL’s all-time leading rusher with 16,726 yards and the Bears’ all-time leader in receptions with 492. He also threw nine touchdowns. He’s still second in NFL history in rushing attempts and yards, fourth in touchdowns and third in yards from scrimmage. He led the league in rushing attempts four times, touches twice and yards from scrimmage twice. During his 1977 MVP season he rushed for 1,852 yards to lead the league, as well as scoring a league-leading 14 rushing TDs. He averaged 5.5 YPC that year and led the league in combined TDs with 16 as well. Simply put, one of the best seasons ever. He won numerous yearly awards, has the NFL humanitarian award named for him, was a member of both the All-1970s and All-1980s decade teams and a member of the NFL’s 75th Anniversary Team. His number 34 is retired by the Bears, but you knew that. - Sam Householder

2. Dick Butkus, MLB, 1965-1973, 8x Pro Bowls (1965-1972), 5x 1st Team All-Pros (1965, 1968-1970, 1972), Pro Football Hall of Fame Class of 1979, Jersey No. 51 retired

Dick Butkus was born to be a Bear. The Chicago native played his college ball at Illinois and was drafted by George Halas third overall in the 1965 NFL draft to take over for Bill George at the middle linebacker spot. Named to both the 1960’s and 1970’s All-Decade teams, Butkus set the standard at the middle linebacker position that all future players would be measured against with ferocious hitting and intimidation. It’s no surprise that college football named the award for the best college linebacker after him. In 1994, the No. 51 was retired in his honor. On a franchise best known for linebacker play, Butkus stands at the head of the pack as the highest ranked defensive player on the list. – Jeff Berckes

3. Gale Sayers, RB, (1965-1971), 4x Pro Bowls (1965-1967, 1969), 5x 1st Team All Pros (1965-1969), Pro Football Hall of Fame Class of 1977, Jersey No. 40 retired

Gale Sayers was one of the most electrifying players to ever play football. He not only belongs in the conversation for greatest running backs of all time, but also in the conversation for greatest returners of all time. If he didn’t tear up his knee in 1968, at just 25-years old, he would be much higher in the franchise and NFL record books. He led the league in rushing and kick return average two times apiece, he led the league in all purpose yards three times, and he led the league in scoring one time. Injuries kept his career to only five productive seasons, but it was enough to make him the youngest inductee into the Pro Football Hall of Fame. ~ Lester A. Wiltfong Jr.

4. Sid Luckman, QB/DB/P, 1939-1950, 4x NFL champion (1940, 1941, 1943, 1946), 5x 1st Team All-Pro (1941-1944, 1947), 1943 NFL MVP, 1940s NFL All-Decade Team, Pro Football Hall of Fame Class of 1965, Jersey No. 42 retired

The Chicago Bears would be just another good franchise without the 1940s. And that means they would be just another good franchise without Sid Luckman. Drafted in 1939, Luckman was George Halas’s answer to Washington’s Sammy Baugh. And while Baugh was considered the better passer, Luckman was often hailed as the better player — think Peyton Manning vs. Tom Brady. In the 11 years that they were in the league together, Luckman topped Baugh in first team All-Pro selections with five to Baugh’s three. Both men were first team (as backs) in 1942 and 1943, but Luckman received more votes in ‘42, and then laughed last in ‘43, winning league MVP behind arguably the greatest passing season in NFL history: a then-record 28 touchdowns on just 202 attempts. He ended that season by leading the Bears to their third championship of the 1940s. (His first, you may recall, was the biggest win in NFL history: 73-0 over Baugh’s club.) Luckman then went off to World War II after the ‘43 championship, was one of four future Hall of Famers who took place in the D-Day invasion, and then returned to the Bears for another title in 1946. He was the reason the team’s T-formation worked and was lauded by Halas as a “coach on the field.” Simply put, Sid Luckman was the key player in the key decade of Chicago Bears football. — Jack M. Silverstein

5. Bill George, LB, 1951-1965, 8x Pro Bowls (1954-1961), 8x First-Team All-Pros (1955-1961, 1963), NFL champion (1963), Pro Football Hall of Fame Class of 1974, Jersey No. 61 retired

In a history rich with terrific linebackers, Bill George was the Bears’ first legendary player at the position. Known by many as the first true middle linebacker, George’s style of play helped create the foundations of the 4-3 defense. He was a nasty, relentless and intelligent defender who was the prototype for the brutes the Bears would have at middle linebacker after his departure. He retired with 18 interceptions and 19 fumble recoveries, and was named a Pro Bowler eight years in a row. His diagnosing abilities in coverage, his reliability in run support and his athleticism made George one of the best players to put on a Bears uniform. — Jacob Infante

6. Clyde Douglas “Bulldog” Turner, OL/LB, 1940-1952, 2x Pro Bowl (1950-51), 2x NFL All-Star (1940-41), 8x NFL All-Pro (1940-44, 1946-48), 4x NFL Champion (1940-41, ‘43, ‘46), Pro Football Hall of Fame Class of 1966, Jersey No. 66 retired

The only lineman drafted within the top 10 picks of the 1940 NFL draft, he would go on as one of the single greatest players in NFL history. He was such a good player coming out of college, that then Detroit Lions owner George Richards was caught tampering in his attempt to coax Bulldog into retirement, then to un-retire and sign with the Lions. He was simply a destroyer of worlds when lining up at center or tackle on the o-line, and a dominant defender when lined up as a LB. He played a total of 138 games for the Chicago Bears, recording 17 interceptions and five fumble recoveries on defense with endless pancakes on offense. When anyone thinks of all-time greats in the sport of football, “Bulldog” Turner’s name will always be a name brought into the conversation. - Erik Christopher Duerrwaechter

7. Brian Urlacher, MLB, 2000-2012, 8x Pro Bowls (2000-2003, 2005-2006, 2011-2012), 4x 1st Team All-Pros (2001-2002, 2005-2006), 2005 Defensive Player of the Year, Pro Football Hall of Fame Class of 2018

The ninth overall pick in the 2000 NFL Draft took over for an injured Barry Minter in the third week of his rookie season and never looked back. The perfect modern linebacker transcended scheme as he put together back to back 1st Team All-Pro seasons for two completely different defensive systems. A safety in college, Urlacher was gifted in coverage, snaring 22 interceptions in addition to 90 passes defensed. Urlacher could also make a living in the opponent’s backfield, racking up 41.5 sacks and a remarkable 138 tackles for loss. After the face of the franchise was named to the 2000’s All-Decade Team, Urlacher entered the Pro Football Hall of Fame on the first ballot in 2018. – Jeff Berckes

8. Bronko Nagurski, FB, 1930-1943, 4x 1st Team All-Pro, 2x NFL Champion (1932, 1933, 1943) Pro Football Hall of Fame Class of 1963 (inaugural class), Jersey No. 3 retired

It’s nearly impossible to separate Nagurski the player from the myth. Nagurski has legend and lore all around his back story, drawing comparisons to the fabled Paul Bunyon. A mountain of a man for his time, Nagurski stood 6’2” and 225 lbs. At a time when players didn’t typically crack 200 lbs. His 19 ½ championship ring size is the largest ever recorded. Nagurski was voted to the 1930s All-Decade Team. He doubled as a tackle and LB but he’s mainly known for his ability to run. He rushed for 2,778 yards and 25 TDs. After he retired following the 1937 season, he returned to Chicago during WWII to contribute to the 1943 Championship winning team. He went on to a successful wrestling career. — Sam Householder

9. Mike Singletary, MLB, 1981-1992, 10x Pro Bowls (1983-1992), 7x 1st Team All-Pro (1984-1989, 1991), 2nd Team All-Pro (1990), 2x Defensive Player of the Year (1985 and 1988), Super Bowl XX Champion, Pro Football Hall of Fame Class of 1998

No Bear has ever been named to more than Singletary’s 10 Pro Bowls, and only Bill George (8) has more than Samurai Mike’s seven First-Team All-Pro honors. Singletary was equal parts cerebral and punishing on the football field. Tackles weren’t an official stat when he played, but the Bears have him credited with nearly 1,500 of them in his 12 year career while starting 172 of 179 games. He played the game with a controlled frenzy that made him one of the more popular Bears of his era. He was also the 1990 NFL Walter Payton Man of the Year — Lester A. Wiltfong Jr.

10. Red Grange, HB/DB, 1925, 1929-1934, 2x 1st Team All-Pro (1930, 1931), 2x NFL Champion (1932, 1933), among first three Bears with his number retired, Pro Football Hall of Fame Class of 1963 (inaugural class), Jersey No. 77 retired

The impact that Red Grange had on not just the Bears but the NFL upon his arrival in November of 1925 is as great as it is well-documented. His brutal injuries and failed football league are properly logged in the history books too. What’s discussed less is just how great of a football player he was after that. From his return to the Bears in 1929 to his retirement following the ‘34 championship game, Harold “Red” Grange wasn’t the athletic superstar of his youth, but he was a unique talent who made two of the most clutch plays in Bears history. In the ‘32 title, the first in league history, he caught a fourth-quarter touchdown from Bronko Nagurski to break a scoreless game and give the Bears a trophy. But the best came in the ‘33 title, on the last play of the game, with time gone and the Bears up two. The Giants completed a pass to Dale Burnett, who had a basketball-esque two-on-one, with teammate Mel Hein trailing him and Grange ahead, the only man between Burnett and the endzone. Sensing that Burnett would lateral to Hein, Grange tackled Burnett high, pinning the ball to his chest, taking him down and giving the Bears championship No. 3. — Jack M Silverstein

11. Doug Atkins, DE, 1955-1966, 8x Pro Bowls (1957-1963), 4x First-Team All-Pro (1958, 1960-61, 1963), 6x Second-Team All-Pro (1957, 1959, 1962, 1964-65, 1968), NFL Champion (1963), Pro Football Hall of Fame Class of 1982

Though he came in a time before sacks were an official stat, Doug Atkins is still seen as one of, if not the best pass rusher in Bears history. At 6-foot 8-inches and 257 pounds, he was a freak of nature whose length was complemented by impressive athleticism, toughness and strength. A crucial part of Chicago’s defense in the 1950s and 60s, he garnered attention from opposing teams as a player to focus on stopping. With a myriad of honors to his name, George is certainly one of the most decorated players to put on the navy and orange, and places a good argument to be considered the best passer the team has ever had. — Jacob Infante

12. Richard Dent, DE, 1983-1993; 1995, 4x Pro Bowls (1984-85, 90, 93), 4x First Team All-Pro (1984-85, 88, 90), 2x Super Bowl Champion (XX, XXIX), Super Bowl MVP (XX), Pro Football Hall of Fame Class of 2011

Want to talk about about a steal in the NFL draft? This HOF player wasn’t selected until the eighth round of the 1983 draft. He would set the Bears’ franchise record for sacks and be named MVP of Super Bowl XX in 1985. Dent’s power off the edge and an unlimited motor would drive him to making plays considered freakish even by today’s athletic standards. Oh, and his solo in the “Super Bowl Shuffle” is fantastic, too. - Erik Christopher Duerrwaechter

13. Dan Hampton, DT/DE, 1979-1990, 4x Pro-Bowls (1980, 1982, 1984-85), 1x First Team All-Pro (1984), 4x Second Team All-Pro (1982, 1984, 1986, 1988), Super Bowl XX Champion, Pro Football Hall of Fame Class of 2002

Hampton was the fourth overall pick in the 1979 draft and went on to be one of the best players in the class. The 1979 NFL Draft had just three future Hall of Famers: Hampton, Joe Montana and Kellen Winslow. Hampton was the foundation around which the Bears’ dominant ‘80s defense was built; Over the next six drafts the Bears would add to their defense, but Hampton was the first piece. He was the first player to be selected All-Pro at two positions and was a second team or alternate for the All-Pro team or Pro-Bowl at both end and tackle. He was a member of the 1980s All-Decade Team. The pride of Arkansas, he ranks third in team history in sacks, trailing only teammates Richard Dent and Steve McMichael. It should be noted that Hampton played his first three seasons before sacks became an official stat. - Sam Householder

14. Mike Ditka, TE, 1961-1966, 5x Pro Bowls (1961-1965), 3x 1st Team All-Pros (1962-1964), 1963 NFL Champion, Pro Football Hall of Fame Class of 1988, Jersey No. 89 retired

Many Bears fans will remember Ditka as “Da Coach” or maybe even as a TV analyst, but the fifth overall pick in the 1961 NFL Draft changed the game forever by inventing the modern tight end position. A fiery, tough competitor, Ditka was a devastating blocker who opened up the game with his receiving abilities. The first NFL tight end to record 1,000 receiving yards in a single season, Ditka remains the team leader in catches (316), yards (4,503), and TDs (34) for the position. In 2013, the Bears announced that Ditka’s #89 would be the last number the club would retire. – Jeff Berckes

15. Dan Fortmann, OG/LB, 1936-1943, 6x 1st Team All-Pro (1938-1942), 2x 2nd Team All-Pros (1936-1937), 3x Pro Bowls (1940-1942), 3x NFL Champion 1940, 1941, 1943, Pro Football Hall of Fame Class of 1965

Fortmann retired after the 1942 season to work full time as a doctor, but the Bears convinced him to return for one more season in 1943. During that season, he worked all week at Pittsburgh’s Presbyterian Hospital then flew in on Saturday’s before each game. He was one of the best offensive linemen of his era, but as a linebacker he chipped in with eight career interceptions. ~ Lester A. Wiltfong Jr.

16. George Connor, OT/LB/DT, 1948-1955, 4x Pro Bowl (1950-1953), 4x 1st team AP All-Pro (1950-1953, OT), Pro Football Hall of Fame Class of 1975

George “Moose” Connor made the All-Pro team five times in his eight-year career, but the magnitude of that achievement isn’t realized until you break down the positions. From 1951 to 1953, he was All-Pro first team on both offense and defense: offensive tackle from the Associated Press and defensive tackle and then linebacker from the UPI. He was also a member of the 1940s All-Decade Team. Whether he was best on offense or defense is a matter of debate: Bears writers Don Pierson and Fred Mitchell placed Connor on their various all-time Bears lists in 1985, 1994 and 2005 at tackle, while Pierson and Dan Pompei this summer named him a starting outside linebacker, a position he’s credited with inventing. “I think I prefer defense,” Connor said in 1985, thirty years after his devastating hit on Packers returner Veryl Switzer, which struck onlookers as particularly violent. “I’d be inclined to put Moose Connor on defense,” Jack Brickhouse said after reading Pierson’s 1985 list. “I saw him put too many people on stretchers.” — Jack M Silverstein

17. Stan Jones, OG/OT/DT, 1954-1965, 7x Pro Bowls (1955-1961), 3x First-Team All-Pro (1955, 1956, 1959), NFL champion (1963), Pro Football Hall of Fame Class of 1991

The first NFL player to ever use weight training for conditioning, Stan Jones was a pioneer for his efforts on and off the field. As an anchor of the Bears’ offensive line, he was one of the most dominant offensive linemen of his era. He missed just two games in his first 11 seasons—a true iron man if there ever was one. He even made the switch to defensive tackle near the end of his career due to a lack of depth at the position, and he excelled there, too. — Jacob Infante

18. Charles Tillman, CB, 2003-2014, 2x Pro Bowls (2011-2012), 1x 1st Team All-Pro (2012)

Charles “Peanut” Tillman will forever be a favorite of mine till the end of time. The same could be said for plenty of Bears fans; Peanut established himself as the greatest turnover machine in NFL history, with his trademarked “Peanut Punch” forcing 44 fumbles throughout his career to go with his 38 interceptions. Both of those are franchise records for the Bears. He’s also the only known player to ever shut down players like Calvin “Megatron” Johnson and Randy Moss consistently. He was a three-time Brian Piccolo Award winner and the NFL’s Walter Payton Man of the Year in 2013. - Erik Christopher Duerrwaechter

19. Joe Stydahar, T, 1936-1946, 4x 1st Team All-Pro (1937-1940), 4x Pro-Bowl (1938-1941), 3x NFL Champion (1940, 1941, 1946), Pro Football Hall of Fame Class 1967

Besides being the answer to ‘who was the Chicago Bears’ first draft pick,’ Stydahar was a staple of the 1940s Monsters of the Midway dynasty. In his second season he received 43 of a possible 50 points from All-Pro voters. In 1939 he was third among All-Pro voters in points, behind teammate Dan Fortmann and Green Bay’s Don Hutson. He was regarded as one of the league’s best players and the best tackles of his day and was voted onto the All-Decade Team for the 1930s. - Sam Householder

20. George McAfee, HB-DB, 1940-1941 & 1945-1950, 1x Pro Bowl (1941), 1st Team All-Pro (1941), 3x NFL Champion (1940, 1941, 1946), Pro Football Hall of Fame Class of 1966, Jersey No. 5 retired

The second overall pick in the 1940 draft, “One-Play McAfee” was in some ways the original Devin Hester – a player with such electric ability that he could score at any time. The do-it-all McAfee still owns the NFL record for average yards per punt return and recorded TDs via run (22), reception (11), pass (3), kick return (2), punt return (2), and interception return (2). Despite McAfee spending the prime of his career fighting in World War II in the US Navy, McAfee was named to the 1940s All-Decade Team, had his number 5 retired in 1955, and was inducted into the Hall of Fame in 1966. – Jeff Berckes

21. Jay Hilgenberg, C, 1981-1991, 7x Pro Bowls (1985-1991), 2x 1st Team All-Pro (1988-1989), 2x 2nd Team All-Pro (1986, 1990), Super Bowl XX Champion

Hilgy started 130 of the 163 games he played in Chicago and the only thing missing from his resume is a much deserved spot in Canton. He’s now eligible on the senior committee list, so I think it’s just a matter of time before he receives a spot in the Hall Of Fame. He was one of the best centers of his era and a part of the legendary Black And Blues Brothers that opened up running lanes for Walter Payton. ~ Lester A. Wiltfong Jr.

22. Bill Hewitt, E, 1932-1936, 3x All Pro (1933-34, 1936), 2x NFL champion (1932-33), NFL 1930s All-Decade Team, Pro Football Hall of Fame Class of 1971, Jersey No. 56 retired

If you want to understand the dynamic power of Bill Hewitt, look no further than opening week of the 1933 season, against the Packers. With his defending champion Bears trailing 7-0 in the fourth, Hewitt made two magnificent plays: he tied the game with a 46-yard touchdown to Luke Johnsos, then he took the lead by blocking a Green Bay field goal, recovering the ball and running it back for a Bears score. For five years in Chicago, Hewitt was that kind of two-way menace. On defense, he developed a pass rush so fast he earned the nickname “The Offside Kid.” In 1949, two years after Hewitt died in an auto accident and six years after his final retirement with the wartime Phi-Pitt Steagles, George Halas retired the first three numbers in Bears history (pictured): Bronko Nagurski’s 3, Red Grange’s 77 and Hewitt’s 56. “He was a happy-go-lucky guy, until he stepped onto the field,” Halas said after Hewitt was elected to the Pro Football Hall of Fame in 1971. “Then he was a terror on offense or defense.” He led NFL in receiving touchdowns in 1934.

23. Ed Healey, OT/OG/E, 1922-1927, 5x First-Team All-Pro (1922-1926), Hall of Fame Class of 1964

Ed Healey’s time with the Bears was relatively brief, but he proved to be a dominant force on the offensive line. His contract purchased by George Halas for $100, Healey led the Bears to winning seasons in all of his six seasons with the team. He was a consistent and versatile player who once tackled a teammate who was going the wrong way after an interception. — Jacob Infante

24. Jim Covert, LT, 1983-1991, 2x Pro Bowl (1985, 86), 2x All-Pro (1985, 86), NFL 1980’s All-Decade Team, Super Bowl XX Champion

Arguably the best LT of all-time for the Chicago Bears if not one of the most underrated LTs in NFL history. Covert started 110 out of 111 games he played for the Bears, and he faced some of the most fearsome pass rushers ever seen during the 80’s. You know, back when defenders were actually allowed to hit QBs. Where his teammate Hilgenberg on the Black and Blue Brothers warrants plenty of HOF consideration, don’t be surprised to see Covert enshrined in Canton in the future as well. - Erik Christopher Duerrwaechter

25. Steve McMichael, DT 1981-1993, 2x 1st Team All-Pro (1985, 1987), 2x Pro-Bowl (1986, 1987), Super Bowl XX Champion

Steve “Mongo” McMichael played 13 seasons with the Bears, never missing a game, the longest consecutive game streak in team history and second-most games all-time to Patrick Mannelly. His 92.5 sacks are second behind Richard Dent. He also had 13 forced fumbles. On many other teams, he’d get Hall of Fame consideration, but two of his teammates rank even higher on this list. - Sam Householder

26. Devin Hester, Returner, 2006-2013, 3x Pro Bowls, 3x 1st Team All-Pros (2006, 2007, 2010), 2nd Team All-Pro (2011)

The greatest return man in the history of the NFL, the Windy City Flyer was simply ridiculous. Hester burst onto the scene with 12 return TDs in his first two seasons including the opening kickoff of Super Bowl XLI. Hester’s NFL records include the most punt return TDs in history (14) and the most combined return TDs in history (20). The highlights are remarkable and the hidden, unmeasurable yardage of field position gained by his very presence gave the Bears an advantage unlike any player before or since. – Jeff Berckes

27. Joe Fortunato, LB, 1955-1966, 5x Pro Bowls (1958, 1962-1965), 3x 1st Team All-Pros (1963-1965), 1 2nd Team All-Pro (1962), NFL Champion 1963

Fortunado is often forgotten about when listing all the linebacking greats that have come through Chicago, but he was one of the best in his era. He was one of the Bears captains and when the Bears drafted Dick Butkus in 1965, they roomed him with Fortunado so he could soak up his veteran knowledge. He only missed one game in his 12-year career, his 22 fumble recoveries is second all-time in Chicago franchise history, and he added 16 interceptions. ~ Lester A. Wiltfong Jr.

28. Olin Kreutz, C, 1998-2010, 6x Pro Bowl (2001-2006), 1st Team All-Pro (2006) 2nd Team All-Pro (2005), 2000 All-Decade NFL Team

Playing center during the most offensively bare era of any of the many dominant Bears runs, Olin Kreutz was the rare offensive player respected in the locker room on the level of one of its many brilliant defensive stars. The longtime captain was strong, tough, tactical and fiery — a certified leader on and off the field. When Brian Urlacher was inducted into the Pro Football Hall of Fame in 2018, he thanked six teammates. Kreutz was the only one not from the defense. “The toughest person I have ever met and one of the hardest working people as well,” Urlacher said. “No doubt he was our team leader. … Olin was the best center in the league, and he made me a better player and competitor. We all looked up to you, Olin.” — Jack M Silverstein

29. George Musso, OG/OT, 1933-1944, 3x Pro Bowls (1939, 1940, 1941), 4x NFL champion (1933, 1940, 1941, 1943), NFL 75th Anniversary All-Time Team, Hall of Fame Class of 1982

When George Musso first started his NFL career, he made only $90 a game, which is less than $1,800 in 2019 money. At six-foot-two and 270 pounds—a massive frame for a player in the 1930s—he demolished opposing defensive linemen and was an anchor on Chicago’s offensive line. He excelled at both guard and tackle and proved to be a dominant player throughout much of his career. — Jacob Infante

30. George Trafton, C, 1920-1932, 6x All-Pro (1920, 1923-1927), 2x NFL Champion (1921, 1932)

Another great linemen joins this list as one of the very first Chicago Bears in franchise history. His career of 12 years was almost unheard of in days where injuries ended careers much faster than today’s game, and in those 12 seasons he started 100 out of a possible 149 games. His nastiness and toughness paved the way for numerous HOF players on the road to two NFL championships. - Erik Christopher Duerrwaechter

31. Link Lyman, T, 1926-1934, 2x 1st Team All-Pro (1930, 1934), 1933 NFL Champion

Lyman came into the infant NFL with the Canton Bulldogs but joined the Bears before the 1925 barnstorming tour with Red Grange. He stuck with the Bears for the rest of his career but retired for 1929 and 1932 seasons before returning for a championship run in ‘33. Halas observed that Lyman was “stronger and tougher” during his final two seasons. Lyman is credited as being the first player to shift on defense after offensive players set. - Sam Householder

32. Lance Briggs, LB, 2003-2014, 7x Pro Bowls (2005-2011), 1st Team All-Pro (2005), 2x 2nd Team All-Pro (2006, 2009)

The perfect weak-side or “Will” backer in Lovie Smith’s scheme, Briggs missed only four games in his first 10 years in Chicago. A third round pick out of Arizona, Briggs spent the majority of his career holding his own next to Brian Urlacher, earning seven straight Pro Bowl selections and averaging over 100 tackles per season. Racking up an impressive 97 tackles for loss, 84 passes defensed, 16 interceptions and six defensive touchdowns over his career, he was equally at home in coverage or making plays against the run. – Jeff Berckes

33. Richie Petibone, S, 1959-1968, 4x Pro Bowls (1962, 1963, 1966, 1967), 1st Team All-Pro (1963), 2x 2nd Team All-Pro (1962, 1967), NFL Champion (1963)

Petibone played his rookie year at corner, starting all 12 games and intercepting three passes, but he was moved to safety the following year and he stayed there for the rest of his career. He never missed a game during his ten years in Chicago, and his 37 interceptions is second all-time in Chicago trailing only Gary Fencik’s 38. His 101 yard interception return for a touchdown in 1962 is still the longest one in franchise history. ~ Lester A. Wiltfong Jr.

34. George Halas, E, 1920-1928, NFL Champion (1921), Hall of Fame Class of 1963, Jersey No. 7 retired

As a football man, George Halas was always the best at something, and as a player, that something was the art of the big play. During his 10-year playing career, Coach Halas was an outstanding end, leading all Bears from 1920 to 1929 with eight of the team’s 49 receiving touchdowns, a quirky type of score in those days in which teams ran and ran and ran. Halas also led the Bears during that time with three defensive touchdowns, including, it would seem, the NFL’s first 90-yard touchdown: a 98-yard fumble return (or 95 or 97, depending on the source) in 1923 against Jim Thorpe’s Oorang Indians. As described by the Quad-City Times: “Halas sidestepped and changed his pace beautifully, throwing Thorpe off his stride time after time.” — Jack M Silverstein

35. Harlon Hill, E, 1954-1961, 3x Pro Bowls (1954-1956), 3x All-Pro (1954-1956), NFL MVP (1955)

Though the NFL has shifted to a focus on having a strong passing attack, the league was primarily focused around the ground game for most of its existence. That makes it surprising to look back on the career of Harlon Hill, a dominant pass catcher who helped pave the way for the wide receiver position. His six-foot-three, 199-pound frame gave him the length to physically dominate opposing defensive backs. He topped 1,000 yards and 10 receiving touchdowns twice in a run-first league, and his abilities as a deep threat and a runner after the catch gave him a career average of 20.2 yards per catch. He led the league in receiving touchdowns in 1954 and ‘55. — Jacob Infante

36. Paddy Driscoll, QB/HB/K, 1920, 1926-1929, 2x 1st Team All-Pro (1926, 1927)

Paddy Driscoll was sold to the Chicago Bears by the Chicago Cardinals (after making four All-Pro teams) in one of the least understood deals in early football history. Not only was he sold to their cross-town rival, he was sold in the hopes of staying in the NFL. His first year with the Bears he led the league in scoring with 86 points. He played one game for the Decatur Staleys in 1920, and 13 games for the Chicago Cubs in 1917. - Erik Christopher Duerrwaechter

37. Gary Fencik, FS, 1976-1987, 2x Pro-Bowl, 1st Team All-Pro (1981), 2nd Team All-Pro (1985)

Despite playing his entire career for the Chicago Bears, Fencik was actually drafted by the Miami Dolphins in the 10th round. The Yale product went on to become perhaps the greatest safety in Bears history. He was a captain of the team for much of his career and is the franchise leader in career interceptions with 38. He and teammate Doug Plank laid the groundwork for the hard-hitting defenses that became the Bears’ identity in the ‘80s. - Sam Householder

38. Matt Forte, RB, 2008-2015, 2x Pro Bowls (2011, 2013)

A second round pick out of Tulane, Forte was the centerpiece of the offense during his tenure in Chicago. With a smooth running style that sometimes masked his speed, Forte stacked yards and catches to feature prominently in the Bears records books, finishing his career second in team history in rushing yards and receptions behind only Walter Payton. He eclipsed 1,400 yards from scrimmage his first seven seasons with the Bears including a stellar 2013 where he finished with 1,933. Forte set a record in 2014 with 102 receptions, the most for a running back at the time. – Jeff Berckes

39. Rick Casares, FB, 1955-1964, 5x Pro Bowl (1955-1959), 1st Team All-Pro 1956, NFL Champion 1963

He was in the army for two years before joining the Bears in 1955. In his All-Pro season of ‘56, he led the league in rushing yards (1,126) and rushing TDs (12). At that time, his rushing total was only 20 yards shy of the single season record. He’s fourth all-time in Bears history with 5,657 rushing yards, his 49 rushing TDs is third all-time, and his 59 total TDs is fourth. At 6’2”, 225 pounds, he was a punishing runner and an impressive athlete. - Lester A. Wiltfong Jr.

40. Ed Sprinkle, DE, 1944-1955, 4x Pro Bowls (1950-1952, 1954), 2nd Team All Pro (1952, 1954), 1946 NFL Champion

Ed Sprinkle was a standout player who flirted with the line of playing dirty. Sprinkle, aka The Claw, has an interesting Hall of Fame case as his play in the 40’s was rewarded with inclusion on the Pro Football Hall of Fame’s 1940s All-Decade Team, followed up by four Pro Bowls in five years in the first half of the 1950s. Sprinkle played his entire career in navy and orange and earned the highest of praise from George Halas, who once referred to him as “the greatest pass-rusher I’ve ever seen.” – Jeff Berckes

Photo by Al Paloczy/The Enthusiast Network/Getty Images

41. Johnny Morris, WR, 1958-1967, Pro Bowl (1960), 1st Team All-Pro (1964), NFL champion (1963)

The Bears’ all-time leader in receiving yards with 5,059, Johnny Morris flourished after teammate Harlon Hill departed the team. He topped 800 yards four times in his career, and he exploded in 1964 with 93 receptions, 1,200 yards and 10 touchdowns, all of which led the NFL. During his ten-year career, he proved to be a reliable starter and one of the most talented pass catchers in franchise history. — Jacob Infante

42. Wilber Marshall, LB, 1984-1987, 2x Pro Bowls (1986,87,92), 1st Team All Pro (1986), Super Bowl XX Champion

Wilber is a player whose career ended way too soon in Chicago. Regardless of whom Chicago drafted with the two first round picks acquired from the Redskins shortly after his signing became official in 1988, they would struggle to develop another young linebacker to fill the void left by No. 58’s departure. He will always be remembered as one of the members of the notorious “Bermuda Triangle” in Chicago, and his performance on the field spoke for itself. Had he stayed in Chicago, there is no telling where he would have stood on the all-time records lists for defensive stats in Chicago. - Erik Christopher Duerrwaechter

43. Mike Brown, S, 2000-2008, Pro Bowl (2005), 1st Team All-Pro (2001)

Drafted in the second round of the 2000 draft, 30 picks after Brian Urlacher, Brown started every game his first four seasons. In 2001, the magical team that compiled a 13-3 mark, Brown’s instinctive nature was put on full display to the world in back to back incredible finishes. While Brown’s career will most likely be remembered as “what could have been” if not for multiple injury plagued seasons, he delivered All-Pro level defensive back play when on the field and a quiet, workmanlike demeanor off the field that earned fan-favorite status. – Jeff Berckes

44. Rosey Taylor, S, 1961-1969, 2x Pro-Bowl (1963, 1968), 1st Team All-Pro (1963), 1963 NFL Champion

Taylor doesn’t get enough credit as the heart of a dominant secondary in 1963. Undrafted out of Grambling State, Taylor became a starter on the ‘60s Bears teams, notching 23 interceptions, still good for 10th in franchise history and 12 fumble recoveries. He had nine INTs during the ‘63 season and in 1968, he returned a pick 96 yards for a touchdown. That is the second-longest pick six in team history. - Sam Householder

45. Joe Kopcha, OL/DL, 1929, 1932-1935, 3x 1st Team All-Pro (1933-35), 2x NFL Champion (1932 and 1933)

After his rookie year, Kopcha left the Bears to become an assistant coach for the University of Alabama while pursuing his medical degree. He wanted to come back to the Bears in 1932, so after convincing George Halas to give him a try out, in which he succeeded, he helped the Bears to back to back titles, while making three straight All Pro’s as an offensive guard. - Lester A. Wiltfong Jr.

46. Doug Buffone, LB, 1966-1979, retired with the most games played in Bears history

“I thought to myself that if we’re going to lose, let’s at least lose together.” That was Doug Buffone in the summer of 1979, reflecting on his team’s internal animus in 1972, one of 10 losing seasons through which he labored. Still, Buffone was an all-around performer. His 24 interceptions are a Bears linebacker record. Depending on the source, he had 18 sacks in either 1967 or 1968, which would have been a franchise record if the stat existed (though Butkus had an unofficial 18 one of those years too). And his unofficial 1,257 tackles would be second in team history behind Brian Urlacher. From his arrival in 1966 to his retirement in ‘79 to his death in 2015, he epitomized the Chicago spirit. He was tough, consistent, beloved. - Jack M Silverstein

47. Bill Osmanski, FB, 1939-1943, 1946-1947, 3x Pro Bowl (1939-1941), 1st team All-Pro (1939), 3x NFL Champion (1940, 1941, 1946)

Osmanski led the league in rushing as a rookie and his career average of 4.8 yards per carry is higher than all but two running backs on the Bears all-time rushing yards list (Gale Sayers’ 5.0 and Beattie Feathers’ 5.5). In Chicago’s historic 73-0 NFL title win over the Redskins in 1940, Osmanski had 10 runs for 109 yards, including a 68 yard TD run to kick off the scoring, and on defense he had an interception. He missed the 1944 and ‘45 seasons while serving in the United States Marine Corps. - Lester A. Wiltfong Jr.

48. Fred Williams, DL, 1952-1963, 4x Pro Bowls (1952, 53, 58, 59), 1963 NFL Champion

Fred was drafted in the 5th round of the 1952 NFL draft, and he is still considered one of the greatest draft-day steals in football history. He simply dominated within the trenches given his length and tenacity to devour linemen or backs who came his way. Had sacks been registered as an official statistic back in the 50’s, I’m sure he would have posted ridiculous numbers that are considered unbreakable to this day. He was just that good. - Erik Christopher Duerrwaechter

49. Dave Duerson, SS, 1983-1989, 4x Pro-Bowl (1985-88), 2x 2nd Team All-Pro, Super Bowl XX Champion

The Notre Dame product took a couple of years to win over defensive coordinator Buddy Ryan, who was notoriously tough on young players, but once he was a starter, he never looked back. Todd Bell sitting out what turned into a Super Bowl season helped too. Duerson was elected to four consecutive Pro-Bowls while tallying 20 INTs and 16 sacks. A fearsome hitter, Duerson laid the wood and struck fear into receivers going across the middle. - Sam Householder

50. Julius Peppers, DE, 2010-2013, 3x Pro Bowls (2010-2012), 1st Team All-Pro (2010)

Peppers played a total of 17 years in the NFL with nine Pro Bowls and three 1st Team All-Pro honors in a likely first ballot Hall of Fame career. The second overall pick in the 2002 draft hit free agency in his prime and signed a massive deal with the Bears (6 years, $91.5M) in 2010. The addition was an instant success, vaulting the Bears defense back to contention and helping the Bears finish at the top of the league in defensive DVOA in 2010-2012 (4th, 4th, and 1st). Peppers arguably had three of his best seasons in Chicago and accumulated an impressive 37.5 sacks during his short time in the Windy City, ranking ninth all-time. – Jeff Berckes

51. Wally Chambers, DT, 1973-1977, 3x Pro Bowls (1973, 1975, 1976), 2nd team All-Pro (1974-75) 1st team All Pro (1976), 1973 Defensive Rookie of the Year

Chambers made an immediate impact for the Bears by making the Pro Bowl while being named the league’s top rookie defender. Sacks weren’t an official stat in his era, but the Washington Post called Chambers a “sack specialist” in 1978. A knee injury in 1977 led to a contract squabble and ultimately a trade request. Even though he was coming off a knee surgery, the Bears were able to trade him to the Buccaneers for a first round draft pick in 1978. - Lester A. Wiltfong Jr.

52. Lee Artoe, OT, 1940-1942, 1945, 2x NFL champion, 1942 1st Team All-Pro

When the Bears defeated the Washington club in its famous 73-0 victory in the 1940 NFL Championship Game, one announcement was heard again and again over the speakers at Griffith Stadium: “Artoe will kick off for the Bears.” The 6’3, 230-pound Artoe was the team’s starting tackle in the early 1940s (an offensive and defensive distinction), and also one of its kickers. Artoe made All-Pro at tackle in 1942, the same year that he became the team’s full time placekicker, hitting 20 of 22 extra points. In 1940 he set a franchise record with a 52-yard field goal, a record that stood 35 years. “He was a real tough guy, a real hitter,” his teammate Ken Kavanaugh (No. 65 on this list) said following Artoe’s death in 2005 at age 88. “He played both sides of the ball for us and even kicked. That was Lee Artoe.” — Jack M Silverstein

53. Keith Van Horne, OT, 1981-1993, Super Bowl XX champion (1985)

Keith Van Horne never made a Pro Bowl and was never named an All-Pro, but what gets him on this list is his consistency and reliability. He played in 186 games and started in 169 during his 13 seasons with the Bears, serving as a catalyst for an offensive line that helped pave the way for Walter Payton in the back half of his career. — Jacob Infante

54. Robbie Gould, K, 2005-2015, 1x Pro Bowl & 1st Team All-Pro (2006)

Robbie is the greatest kicker in the history of the franchise by a considerable margin. After bouncing around the league with the Patriots and Ravens in 2005, he found his true home with the Bears as a tryout player. From 2005 on, he broke the record as the franchise’s all-time leading scorer, and to this day he is still Good as Go(u)ld. - Erik Christopher Duerrwaechter

55. George Wilson, E-DE, 1937-1946, 3x Pro-Bowls, 1x All-Pro, 4x NFL Champion (1940, 1941, 1943, 1946)

A two-way star on the Bears’ four championship teams in the ‘40s, Wilson contributed as an end and on defense. In the famous 73-0 rout of the 1940 NFL Championship, Wilson threw a block, knocking down two Washington players, allowing Bill Osmanski to run for the first score of the game. - Sam Householder

56. Doug Plank, S, 1975-1982

Plank was a 12th round draft pick, but as a rookie he started all 14 games and he was the first rookie to ever lead the Bears in tackles. As one of the “Hit Men” with fellow safety Gary Fencik, Plank had a reputation for punishing ball carriers. His ability to play as a kind of hybrid SS/LB allowed defensive coordinator Buddy Ryan to create his famed 46 Defense, and it was Plank’s jersey number (#46) that gave Buddy Ryan’s defense its name. - Lester A. Wiltfong Jr.

57. Neal Anderson, RB, 1986-1993, 4x Pro Bowl (1988-1991)

Anderson was drafted while Walter Payton was still playing at a Pro Bowl level, but he was brought on to be his heir apparent. He backed up Payton as a rookie, he then played fullback alongside him in 1987, before taking over as the number one tailback in ‘88 when Sweetness retired. Anderson is all over the team’s all-time franchise leaderboard, ranking third in rushing yards, third in attempts, second in rushing TDs, second in total TDs, eighth in scoring, and eighth in receptions. - Lester A. Wiltfong Jr.

58. Jim McMahon, QB, 1982-1988, 1x Pro Bowl (1985), Super Bowl XX Champion

Few Bears players have seen the team’s fortunate and history pivot so many times seemingly upon their comings and goings. When the team drafted him fifth overall in 1982, Bears head coach Mike Ditka made special note that McMahon would wear No. 9, saying, “The last time this team won a championship, the quarterback Bill (Wade) wore No. 9.” When Mac started, the Bears won 75 percent of their regular season games compared to 60 percent with all other quarterbacks. In his best season, they won the Super Bowl. When he missed time after that season, the team wobbled. He was a leader, fighter and gamer. Fans loved all three. — Jack M Silverstein

59. Ray Bray, DL/OG, 1939-1942, 1946-1951, 4x Pro Bowls (1940, 1941, 1950, 1951), 3x NFL champion (1940, 1941, 1946)

Ray Bray is far from the sexiest name in Bears history, but he was a consistent defensive/offensive lineman who played a key role on three championship teams. The four-time Pro Bowler took time off to fight in the Navy during World War II, but he picked up where he left off, adding two Pro Bowls to the two he had before his stint in the military. — Jacob Infante

60. Jay Cutler, QB, 2009-2016

Smokin’ Jay is, arguably, the most controversial player in the history of the franchise. Once seen as the final ingredient in a Super Bowl recipe under Jerry Angelo’s guise and Lovie Smith’s team, he did not live up to expectations. Then again, I for one argue to this day that had a better effort been made to build a sustainable team around him earlier, there would have been Super Bowl championships in Chicago. Still, he left the franchise as the all-time leader in most statistical categories, including passing yards, passing touchdowns and snarkiest comments made by a QB. To this day, he’s still winning as the lone bright spot on the “Very Cavalleri” reality series on television. - Erik Christopher Duerrwaechter

61. Mark Bortz, G, 1983-1994, 2x Pro-Bowls (1988, 1990), Super Bowl XX Champion

Bortz is arguably the best modern-era guard in Bears history. He started 155 of the 171 games he appeared in. His entire career was spent in Chicago after being drafted in the eighth round out of Iowa. He was the final starter of the seven the Bears plucked in that ‘83 draft. He was also the final starter from the Super Bowl team still with the Bears and he has appeared in the most playoff games of any Bears player (13). - Sam Householder

62. Ed O’Bradovich, DE, 1962-1971, 1963 NFL Champion

“Wild, tough, relentless.” That’s how NFL Films starts to describe “OB” in this must-see clip. The lifelong Bear and Illinois native made one of the biggest plays in the 1963 championship game, intercepting a pass to set up the go-ahead score. His influence has been woven into the navy and orange fabric of Halas Hall over multiple generations as he hosted a postgame show alongside Doug Buffone and has delivered two Hall of Fame induction speeches for Bears greats Mike Ditka and Dan Hampton. – Jeff Berckes

63. Tommie Harris, DT, 2004-2010, 3x Pro Bowls (2005-2007), Second-Team All-Pro (2005)

At his peak, Tommie Harris was one of the best defensive tackles in the NFL. A quick and explosive lineman with value as a pass rusher, Harris tallied 28.5 sacks, 51 tackles for a loss and 47 quarterback hits in his seven seasons with the Bears. A handful of injuries and poor play near the end of his career ended his time with the team on a sour note, but he was a valuable member of Chicago’s vaunted mid-2000s defense. — Jacob Infante

64. Jim Osborne, DT, 1972-1984, 186 Bears games played (tied for 5th in franchise history)

I was a bit too young to appreciate Jim Osborne during his playoff days, but I can say with confidence he would have been one of my favorite Bears. He played his entire 13-year career in Chicago, retiring tied with Doug Buffone for most games played in franchise history with 186. Because the sack was not an official NFL statistic until 1982, Osborne’s stats are hard to find, but a 1994 Tribune article by Bill Jauss says he ranks fourth in franchise history with 81.5. (He has not been passed.) He won a variety of character awards, including the Brian Piccolo Award as a rookie, and retired after the 1984 NFC championship game, one season shy of the Super Bowl, noting in 1994 that he had no regrets, and always felt a part of the team. “It took a lot of blood, sweat and tears to get to that Super Bowl, and part of that blood, sweat and tears was mine.” — Jack M Silverstein

65. Ken Kavanaugh, E, 1940-1941, 1945-1950, 3x First-Team All-Pro (1946-1948), 3x NFL champion (1940, 1941, 1946)

Ken Kavanuagh’s yearly production may not be impressive by today’s standards—he only topped 660 yards once in a season—but his reliability as a pass catcher has him ranked tenth in franchise history in receiving yards. However, he’s still the franchise’s leader in touchdown catches, with 50. He took off time to fight in World War II after his first two seasons with the Bears, but he returned better than ever, leading the NFL in receiving touchdowns twice and averaging 22.4 yards per catch during his career. He was a member of the 1940s All-Decade Team and led the NFL in receiving TDs twice during his career. — Jacob Infante

66. Dick Barwegen, OG, 1950-1952, 4x Pro Bowl & All Pro

Barwegen played his best football while with the Chicago Bears from 1950-1952, earning both Pro Bowl and All-Pro nods in all his seasons with the Monsters of the Midway. He is one of only four members remaining from the 1950’s All-Decade team who has not been enshrined within the Hall of Fame. - Erik Christopher Duerrwaechter

67. Brandon Marshall, WR, 2012-2014, 2 Pro Bowls (2012, 2013), 1st-Team All-Pro (2012)

Though Brandon Marshall only spent three seasons with the Bears, he was the most talented and physically gifted wide receiver the team has ever had. With two seasons of over 100 catches, 1,250 receiving yards and 10 touchdowns—as well the single greatest season for a receiver in franchise history (2012)—he shattered record books and found himself a place as one of the best offensive players Chicago has ever had. — Jacob Infante

68. Otis Wilson, OLB, 1980-1987, 1 Pro Bowl & 2nd Team All-Pro (1985), Super Bowl XX Champion

Wilson, aka Mamma’s Boy, came to the Bears as a first round draft pick in 1980 out of Louisville. One of many defenders honored on this list from the SB XX team, Wilson was a solid performer early on in Buddy Ryan’s defense, often doing the dirty work necessary for other players to rack up stats. A nose for the QB, Wilson ranks second in sacks among Chicago Bears linebackers with 36 in his career (Urlacher, 41.5) and 10th overall. – Jeff Berckes

69. Willie Galimore, RB, 1957-1963, 1x Pro Bowl (1958), 1x 2nd Team All Pro (1958), 1963 NFL Champion, Jersey No. 28 retired

Three times Willie “The Wisp” Galimore finished in the top ten for rushing yards and rushing touchdowns for a season, and he did so while sharing the backfield with five-time Pro Bowler Rick Casares. Galimore is tenth all-time in Bears history in rushing yards, and ninth in total touchdowns. A car accident took his life at 29 years old in the summer of ‘64, and his #28 is retired by the Bears. - Lester A. Wiltfong Jr.

70. Jack Manders, K/RB 1933-1940, 2x All Pro (1934, 1937), 1940 NFL champion

In 1934, just his second season, “Automatic Jack” was the recipient of the United Press’s impromptu “Honor Man” designation to include Manders as a surprise 12th player for first team All Pro to account for his all-around play as both a kicker and a back. The U.P. called him “the greatest placekicker of the decade and perhaps in history,” as he led the league in extra points made and total points. Three years later he was the points leader again, though this time with a career-high five touchdowns. He was again 1st team; the U.P. called him a “placekicking artist,” “perhaps the best all-around back in the league” and “one of the hardest men in the league to bring down.” — Jack M Silverstein

71. Mark Carrier, S, 1990-1996, 3x Pro Bowl (1990, 1991, 1993), 1st-Team All-Pro (1991), 2nd-Team All-Pro (1990), Defensive Rookie of the Year (1990)

Very few players, if any, in Bears history have made as much of an impact in their rookie season as Mark Carrier did. He broke the franchise record with 10 interceptions in his rookie season and added 122 tackles and five forced fumbles to the mix. During his seven years with the team, he would have 20 interceptions, 10 forced fumbles and 587 tackles while missing only three games. — Jacob Infante

72. Dick Gordon, WR, 1965-1971, 2x Pro Bowl (1970, 1971)

A player lost in time, and one who played on some rather forgettable Chicago Bears teams. In 1970, he hauled in 13 TD receptions in 14 games to go with 1,026 yards receiving. He would finish his career between the Rams, Packers, and Chargers before retiring from the league in 1974. He is, still, one of only a handful of Bears receivers who were voted into the Pro Bowl as a receiver. - Erik Christopher Duerrwaechter

73. Donnell Woolford, CB, 1989-1996, 1x Pro-Bowl (1993)

Woolford arrived in Chicago as the team’s first round pick in the 1989 draft and immediately became an impactful starter. His 32 interceptions rank fourth in team history and that’s in just 111 games, significantly less than the players ahead of him on the list. In his Pro-Bowl season of 1993 he had two interceptions but 101 tackles. The previous season he had 94 tackles and seven interceptions but did not get a Pro-Bowl nod. He was an All-Conference pick in 1994 by Pro Football Weekly. - Sam Householder

74. Thomas Jones, RB, 2004-2006

TJ is one of the most agonizing “what if?” cases in Bears history. A free agent arrival in 2004, Jones clicked immediately with his coaches and teammates, improved every year, and was a leader and heavy producer on back-to-back division champs, including the 2006 Super Bowl team. He ran for 112 yards in that game on just 15 carries. If they’d fed him more, he and his teammates might have ended up with a trophy. The team might not have traded him a month later. And based on his yardage after leaving Chicago, he would have retired second in Bears rushing only to his idol, Walter Payton. — Jack M Silverstein

75. Kyle Long, OL, 2013-Present, 3 Pro Bowls (2013-2015), 2nd Team All-Pro (2014)

Long was a good enough two-sport athlete to be drafted by the White Sox out of high school and the Bears in the first round of the 2013 NFL Draft. An immediate star along the offensive line, Long earned two Pro Bowl honors at guard and one at tackle in a selfless move to kick outside to help the squad. While injuries have limited Long’s availability in recent years, his toughness to get back on the field epitomizes his dedication. A true road grader and a running back’s best friend, the yards per carry splits with and without Long on the field can turn an average back into a star. – Jeff Berckes

76. Mike Pyle, C, 1961-1969, 1x champion (1963), 1x Pro Bowl (1963)

The Bears get attention as a franchise of running backs and linebackers, and rightly so. But we’ve got a helluva fraternity of centers too. Pyle is the least accomplished of the five, and that speaks volumes, because the Illinois native was a rock. In his nine-year NFL career, all with the Bears, he played in 121 of 126 possible regular season games, starting 120. Pyle, who died in 2015, shared offensive captainship of the ‘63 title team with his lifelong friend Mike Ditka. — Jack M Silverstein

77. James “Big Cat” Williams, RT, 1991-2002, 1x Pro-Bowl (2001), 1x 2nd-Team All-Pro (2001)

Williams, an undrafted defensive lineman out of Cheyney, converted to tackle and became a staple on the Bears’ offensive line throughout the 1990s. His rise from unknown to starter endeared him to Bears fans and he finally got his due with a Pro-Bowl nod following the 13-3 2001 season. He was also a second team AP All-Pro selection that season. He started 134 straight games from 1994 to his retirement. - Sam Householder

78. Patrick Mannelly, LS, 1998-2013

The one. The only. The Mann. He’s the longest tenured Chicago Bear in history. His franchise record stands at 245 games played, a feat we may never see broken in our lifetime. Legend has it that his mullet still stands watch over Soldier Field, praying on any unsuspecting Green Bay Packers fan who dares to trespass into Bearland. - Erik Christopher Duerrwaechter

79. Herman Lee, LT, 1958-1966, 1963 NFL Champion

Lee lacks the postseason honors of many of his teammates but that doesn’t lessen his impact. Lee started 115 of 119 games he played with the Bears and missed exactly one game during his Bears career. - Sam Householder

80. Bill Wade, QB, 1961-1966, 1x Pro Bowl (1963), 1963 NFL Champion

The first overall draft pick for the Los Angeles Rams in the 1952 NFL Draft, Wade spent the first seven years of his career mostly disappointing the Rams faithful. A 1961 trade brought Wade to Chicago where he led a steadily improving Bears team, highlighted by a Pro Bowl honor and a championship in 1963. The championship game itself was ugly for both QBs as Giants QB YA Tittle threw five picks, but Wade managed to take care of the ball and scored both Bears touchdowns on the ground. Wade currently sits third all-time with 68 career TD passes. - Jeff Berckes

Photo by Jonathan Daniel/Getty Images

81. Alex Brown, DE, 2002-2009

If it wasn’t for Lovie Smith’s fascination with situational pass rusher Mark Anderson in 2007, Brown would have had seven straight years of never missing a start. Brown was the better football player, and even though Anderson started 14 games in ‘07 (to Brown’s two) Brown had a better year. His 43.5 sacks is fourth in Chicago history, but his best stats are his 39 passes defended and his five interceptions from his defensive end position. - Lester A. Wiltfong Jr.

82. Ray McLean, RB/returner/DB, 1940-1947, 4x NFL champion (1940-41, 1943, 1946, 2x Pro Bowl (1940, 1941)

George “One Play” McAfee was drafted 2nd overall in 1940. Ray “Scooter” McLean was picked in the same draft, 20 rounds later. McAfee rightly gets more attention — unlike McLean, he was an All Pro, Hall of Famer and one of 14 Bears whose number was retired. But McLean had those “one play” capabilities too. He focused his offensive game not as a tailback or halfback but as a receiver, and was a dominant defensive back too. When he retired in 1947, McLean ranked 1st in franchise history in interceptions, 1st in all-purpose yards, 1st in combined kick and punt return yards, 2nd in receptions, 2nd in receiving yards and 3rd in touchdowns. - Jack M Silverstein

83. Akiem Hicks, DE, 2016-present, 1x Pro Bowl (2018)

A cornerstone in the recent rejuvenation of Bears football, Akiem Hicks has been one of the best interior defensive linemen in the NFL for all three of his seasons with the team. He hasn’t missed a single game in that time, and has been a consistent force as a run stuffer and on passing downs, topping seven sacks and double-digit tackles for a loss in every season with Chicago. His technique and strength make him an overwhelming force for offensive linemen across the league, and those traits will likely see him shoot up this list in a few years. — Jacob Infante

84. Edward “Dutch” Sternaman, RB/K, 1920-1927, 1921 NFL Champion, All-NFL (1922)

One of the very first Chicago Bears in the history of the franchise. “Dutch” was the first player to sign with the Bears after George Halas assumed control and moved the team from Decatur to Chicago. He was both a featured back during the early years for the Bears, as well as a reliable kicker. In all, he rushed for 11 touchdowns and kicked 21 field goals to go with 28 extra point attempts. - Erik Christopher Duerrwaechter

85. Kevin Butler, K, 1985-1995, Super Bowl XX Champion

Butler was the franchises scoring leader from his departure in 1994 until Robbie Gould broke it in week five of 2015. Butthead, as he was lovingly nicknamed, was a fan favorite and led the NFL in scoring during his rookie season, which culminated with a Super Bowl XX victory. He scored over 100 points five times during his career in Chicago. - Sam Householder

86. Bennie McRae, CB, 1962-1970, 2nd Team All-Pro (1965), 1963 NFL Champion

A champion collegiate hurdler at the University of Michigan, McRae joined the Bears as a second round pick in 1962. The athletic McRae missed only one game in his nine year run with the Bears and racked up 27 career interceptions, ranking fifth all-time, and taking back a then-record four for touchdowns. McRae saved his best games for the Hall of Fame quarterbacks, including a two-interception game against the great Johnny Unitas in an upset victory in 1966. However, his biggest interception came in the 1963 Championship Game off Y.A. Tittle, the Giants QB, to help secure a 14-10 victory. - Jeff Berckes

87. Ed Brown, QB/P, 1954-1961, 2x Pro Bowl (1955, 1956)

As a punter, Brown ranks sixth all-time in franchise history in both punts and punting yards, but did you realize that his 1956 season as a passer could be arguably be considered one of the best all-time in Chicago? In ‘56, he led the NFL in completion percentage, passer rating, TD percentage, and yards per attempt. How often has a Bears quarterback led the league in any of those categories? Historically, he’s seventh all-time for the Bears in attempts, completions, and yards, and his 63 passing TDs is tied for fifth. - Lester A. Wiltfong Jr.

88. Johnny Lujack, QB/DB, 1948-1951, 2x Pro Bowl (1950, 1951), 1x All Pro-1 (1950)

Seeking an heir to the aging Sid Luckman, the Bears drafted Lujack fourth overall in 1946 and fellow QB Bobby Layne third overall in 1948. Lujack and Layne both debuted in ‘48, and Lujack distinguished himself enough that Papa Bear sold the future Hall of Famer Layne to the Bulldogs. Lujack proceeded to lead the NFL in 1949 in a number of passing categories, including yards and touchdowns. But he retired young in 1951 in favor of coaching in college, leading to the first of many dark days for the Bears quarterback position. - Jack M Silverstein

89. Roberto Garza, OG/C, 2005-2014

Roberto Garza was never an elite player during his time with the Bears, but he was one thing: reliable. After signing in free agency in 2005, Garza started every game he played in after only starting seven games in his first season with Chicago. He only missed six games in his 10 years as a Bear, showcasing impressive durability, and he was even made the cover athlete of the Spanish version of Madden NFL 09. Plus, after 10 seasons of playing as a guard, he made the transition to center and did so seamlessly, starting there for the Bears for his remaining four seasons. —Jacob Infante

90. Mike Hartenstine, DE, 1975-1986, SB XX Champion

One of the most unheralded members of the 1985 Super Bowl Shuffle squad. From 1975 to 1986 he was one of the unquestioned starters up front, helping Hall of Fame players like Dan Hampton and Richard Dent terrorize QBs. For his career he recorded 32 sacks; however, sacks did not become an official statistic until 1982. His career best season was in 1983 when he recorded 12 sacks in 16 starts. He left the Bears in 1987 for the Minnesota Vikings, where he started five games, before retiring the following offseason. - Erik Christopher Duerrwaechter

91. Beattie Feathers, RB, 1934-1937, 1 All-Pro (1934)

Feathers is most-remembered as the answer to the trivia question who was the first player to rush for 1,000 yards in NFL history? Feathers accomplished that as a rookie, in 1934, adding eight rushing touchdowns and averaging an impressive 91.3 yards per game over the 13 game season, though he played in just 11 games. There wouldn’t be another 1,000 yard rusher for 13 years. The 91.3 YPG is still a rookie Bears record and his 8.4 yards per carry is still an NFL record for a single season. He’s the only member of the 1930s All-Decade Team not enshrined in the Pro Football Hall of Fame. - Sam Householder

92. Matt Suhey, FB, 1980-1989. SB XX Champion

The lifelong Bear paved the way for Walter Payton and Neal Anderson as one of the best blocking fullbacks in the game. A second round pick in 1980, Suhey scored a touchdown in Super Bowl XX. While overshadowed by talented running backs, Suhey averaged 4.6 yards per carry in his standout 1983 season where he racked up over 1,100 yards from scrimmage including an impressive 49 catches. The fan favorite was also a close personal friend of backfield mate Payton and served as executor of his estate when Payton passed away in 1999. - Jeff Berckes

93. Brad Maynard, P, 2001-2010, 2nd Team All-Pro (2004)

No one has punted for more yards in Bears history than Maynard’s 36,781. His 878 punts rank second all-time, which is good for a 41.9 yard average. He was known as a directional punter during his day as evidenced by averaging 28.4 punts inside the twenty during his 10 years in Chicago. He also completed 5 of 7 passes in his Bears’ career, for two touchdowns and a passer rating of 153.3. - Lester A. Wiltfong Jr.

94. Gary Famiglietti, FB/RB, 1938-1945, 2x NFL champion, 3x Pro Bowl (1940, 1941, 1942)

Forget for a moment everything you know about Gary Famiglietti, and just look at this picture. If I asked you to pick out the man whom sportswriters of the day referred to as a “steamroller,” you would quickly I.D. the dude wearing #2. At 6’0, 225, Famiglietti was arguably the premier big back in the NFL during his day. His 503 rushing yards in 1942 was the most for an NFL back his size until Hall of Famer Marion Motley’s 1950 season. Famiglietti helped the Bears win two championships as the bruiser of the backfield; following ‘42, he was one of only three players ever with 500 rushing yards and eight touchdowns in a season. — Jack M Silverstein

Los Angeles Times

95. Tom Thayer, OG/C, 1985-1992, Super Bowl champion (1985)

Now the color commentator for Bears radio broadcasts on WBBM, Tom Thayer put together a solid career for himself as a player. He started at right guard for the ‘85 Bears and remained starter for the remainder of his tenure with the team, paving lanes for Walter Payton at the end of his career and ensuring Neal Anderson make a smooth transition into the starting lineup. — Jacob Infante

96. Dave Whitsell, DB, 1961-1966, 1963 NFL Champion

Whitsell spent his NFL career with three different teams: the Lions (1958-1960); the Bears (1961-1966); and the Saints (1967-1969). His lone Pro Bowl came in his first year with the New Orleans Saints in 1967. In all, he totaled 46 interceptions in his NFL career, with 26 of those recorded with the Bears (6th all-time). It’s worth noting he totaled only one interception while with the Lions. The career highlight for him was being a member of the 1963 NFL Championship team. - Erik Christopher Duerrwaechter

97. J.C. Caroline, DB, 1956-1965, 1 Pro Bowl (1956), 1963 NFL Champion

Caroline was a one-time Pro-Bowler but was a starter for his first seven years and still ranks eighth in team history in interceptions with 24. He appeared in every game during the 1963 Championship season. He was a running back in college at Illinois and briefly played both ways with the Bears before becoming a DB full time. He also intercepted Johnny Unitas’ first career pass and returned it for a touchdown. - Sam Householder

98. Marty Booker, WR, 1999-2003, 2008. 1 Pro Bowl (2002)

Booker was the first Bears receiver to eclipse the 100 catch mark in a single season in 2001 and followed that effort up with a 97-catch Pro Bowl season, holding the top two spots in team history at the time of his retirement. Drafted in the third round of the 1999 draft, Booker’s oversized hands helped him make crazy one-handed grabs like this one. Despite spending four years of his career with Miami, Booker is currently tied for the fourth most receptions in Chicago Bears history with 329. - Jeff Berckes

99. Alshon Jeffery, WR, 2012-2016, 1 Pro Bowl (2013)

Say what you want about Jeffery, but you can’t deny how productive he was when playing in Chicago. In 2013 he set the single game high for receiving yards in a game at 218, then he broke his own record two months later when he went for 249 yards. His 4,549 receiving yards in a Bears’ uni ranks third all time in franchise history, while his 304 receptions ranks seventh. - Lester A. Wiltfong Jr.

100. Tim Jennings, CB, 2010-2014, 2x Pro Bowl (2012, 2013), 2nd team All-Pro (2012)

After his second season in Chicago, the knock on Jennings was that he didn’t finish interceptions. So with just seven picks in four years, Jennings went hard on the JUGS machine in the 2012 offseason. The results were huge: a team leading 10 interceptions in minicamp and OTAs, and an NFL-best nine picks in 2012. In his two Pro Bowl seasons, he bagged 13 total with three TDs. - Jack M Silverstein