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Former Chicago Bears fullback Matt Suhey dies at age 66

2 sources • 1 min read • Latest: Sep 7, 2026, 11:52 PM

Last updated Sep 7, 2026

Former Chicago Bears fullback Matt Suhey dies at age 66
Summary

Matt Suhey, who played his entire 10-year NFL career with the Chicago Bears, died on Sunday, Sept. 6, at age 66. The team confirmed the death of the longtime fullback. Suhey won a Super Bowl alongside teammate and running back Walter Payton during their tenure in Chicago. Following the death of Walter Payton in 1999, Suhey became a father figure to Walter's son, Jarrett Payton. Jarrett Payton expressed his gratitude in a public tribute, noting that Suhey provided stability and protection for the family for years. Suhey was also the godfather to Scotty, the son of the former Bears player.

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By the Numbers
  • •Matt Suhey played 10 seasons with the Chicago Bears.
  • •The Chicago Bears confirmed the death of Suhey on Sept. 6.
  • •Suhey won a Super Bowl championship as a teammate of Walter Payton.
  • •Jarrett Payton identified Suhey as a significant father figure following his own father's death.
Latest Updates
  • 11:52 PMYahoo Sports — 'Dad left him in charge.' Walter Payton's son, Jarrett, mourns Matt Suhey
  • 11:52 PMUSA Today — 'Dad left him in charge.' Walter Payton's son, Jarrett, mourns Matt Suhey - USA Today
What they're saying
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Matt Suhey was Bears teammate Walter Payton's best friend. "When everything felt uncertain, he was there," Jarrett Payton wrote.

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Matt Suhey was Bears teammate Walter Payton's best friend. "When everything felt uncertain, he was there," Jarrett Payton wrote.

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