Deerfield, Illinois — Matt Suhey, a stalwart fullback for the Chicago Bears during one of the franchise’s golden eras, passed away on Sunday, September 6, 2026, at the age of 68. Known for his tenacity and dedication on the field, Suhey gained fame not only for his role in blocking for legendary running back Walter Payton, but also for scoring the first touchdown in Super Bowl XX.
The Bears confirmed Suhey’s death, with initial reports indicating that he died from natural causes at his home. The Lake County Coroner’s Office stated that preliminary investigations revealed no suspicious circumstances. According to Chief Deputy Coroner Steve Newton, Suhey had a significant medical history and was under the care of a primary care physician. Friends and former teammates were left in shock, as many had seen him looking healthy in the weeks prior. Former Bears safety Gary Fencik expressed disbelief, recalling their recent attempts to schedule a get-together, remarking on Suhey’s steady demeanor.
Suhey’s standout moment came during the Super Bowl on January 26, 1986, when he scored an 11-yard touchdown in the first quarter. This pivotal play helped propel the Bears to a decisive 46-10 victory over the New England Patriots, marking the franchise’s only Super Bowl win to date. Over the season, he contributed significantly, rushing for 471 yards and being a consistent presence in a high-octane offense that finished with a 15-1 record.
Drafted in the second round of the 1980 NFL Draft from Penn State, where he had a successful collegiate career, Suhey dedicated all ten of his NFL seasons to the Bears, retiring after the 1989 season. His durability was remarkable, playing 148 games and starting 100, while accumulating nearly 3,000 rushing yards and over 2,100 receiving yards throughout his career. Beyond his own statistics, Suhey’s blocking prowess was pivotal in allowing Payton to achieve Hall of Fame status, as he helped the iconic back amass close to 10,000 rushing yards during their eight years together.
The bond between Suhey and Payton extended well beyond the football field. Payton entrusted Suhey with the role of a family protector, even designating him godfather to one of his children. Their friendship deepened during Payton’s battle with liver cancer, when Suhey provided support and comfort until Payton’s passing in 1999. This profound relationship illustrated Suhey’s loyalty and strength, traits that defined both his character and career.
In his post-football life, Suhey transitioned to a successful career on the trading floor at the Chicago Board of Trade while remaining connected to the Bears. He was also involved in numerous team events, such as presenting for Jim Covert’s induction into the Pro Football Hall of Fame and attending ceremonies honoring past legends of the game.
His passing adds to the sense of loss felt by fans and players alike from the celebrated 1985 Bears team, following the earlier death of defensive tackle Steve McMichael, who also passed away from complications related to amyotrophic lateral sclerosis. As tributes pour in for Suhey, Jarrett Payton, Walter Payton’s son, reflected on the enduring legacy that Suhey left in their family, noting that he became a father figure after Walter’s death, consistently providing support without seeking recognition.
Matt Suhey’s legacy will forever be etched in the memories of Bears fans and the history of the NFL, remembered not just for his contributions on the field but for the friendships and bonds he cultivated off of it.