Dick Butkus Quotes

Powerful Dick Butkus for Daily Growth

About Dick Butkus

Dick Butkus Quotes, born Richard James Butkus Jr. on December 9, 1942, in Chicago, Illinois, was an American football linebacker known for his remarkable career and later, as a popular commentator and motivational speaker. Butkus grew up in a working-class family where sports were a significant part of his life. His father, Richard Butkus Sr., was a semiprofessional football player, which undoubtedly influenced Dick's love for the game. He attended Saint Rita of Cascia High School and later the University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, where he became an All-American in college football. Drafted by the Chicago Bears in the first round of the 1965 NFL Draft, Butkus quickly made a name for himself with his aggressive playing style and physical prowess. He was a central figure on the Bears' defense during their triumphant years under Coach George Halas, earning nine Pro Bowl selections and five All-Pro designations in his career. After retiring from football in 1973, Butkus transitioned into broadcasting as a color commentator for the Bears games on NBC. He also ventured into business, owning several restaurants and car dealerships in the Chicago area. In addition to his professional endeavors, Butkus remained active in charitable causes, especially those related to children and sports programs. Throughout his life, Dick Butkus Quotes has become synonymous with determination, tenacity, and resilience, as evidenced by his numerous quotes that have inspired generations. Some of his most famous sayings include "The difference between the good and the great is that the great make the impossible possible," and "I don't know what my era will be remembered for, but I guarantee you it won't be for dancing." His legacy continues to inspire athletes and fans alike as a testament to the power of hard work, dedication, and passion.

Interpretations of Popular Quotes

"I don't care if I'm the commissioner of football, because there's nothing I'd rather do than kick some ass on the field."

Dick Butkus, a renowned American football linebacker, expresses his unwavering passion for the game in this quote. Despite imagining himself in a high-ranking position like the commissioner of football, he prioritizes his love for playing over administrative roles. His sentiment conveys an intense desire to be actively engaged on the field and exert his skills rather than merely managing or leading from behind the scenes. The phrase "kick some ass" suggests his competitive nature, resilience, and determination to outperform others in a physically demanding sport. Overall, this quote encapsulates Butkus's fierce devotion to football and his commitment to excel in it.


"The difference between a good player and a great player is that a good player knows what to do, but a great player knows why it needs to be done."

This quote by Dick Butkus emphasizes the importance of understanding the underlying reasons or principles behind an action, not just performing the action itself. A good player follows instructions and executes tasks effectively, while a great player goes beyond that by comprehending the purpose or intent behind those actions. They have a deep understanding of the game's dynamics and strategies, allowing them to adapt their skills in various situations and excel at a higher level. This perspective can also apply to other areas of life, as individuals who understand why they are doing something possess the ability to think critically, make informed decisions, and improve continuously.


"I never had a problem with guys who wanted to hit me. I've always had a problem with the guys who couldn't."

Dick Butkus, the legendary football linebacker, is expressing that he had no issues with opponents who were aggressive towards him because it was part of the game. However, his frustration lies with those players who lacked the skill or courage to effectively challenge him on the field. This quote highlights his competitive spirit and desire to face formidable opponents in sport.


"To be a great football player, you have to be a great man first."

This quote by Dick Butkus underscores the idea that being a successful athlete, specifically a great football player, is not solely about physical prowess, but also encompasses moral integrity, character, and personal strength. In other words, being a great man - demonstrating respect, discipline, responsibility, and compassion - translates to being a great football player because these qualities foster the mental toughness, resilience, and teamwork necessary for success on and off the field. It emphasizes that great athletes are not just physically skilled but also well-rounded individuals who lead with their character and values.


"The most important thing for a defensive player is to know exactly what his responsibilities are every single play and never make a mistake."

This quote emphasizes the importance of discipline, focus, and understanding one's role for defensive players in sports. Essentially, it underscores that mastering one's responsibilities is crucial to success on defense. A good defensive player must know their assignment on every single play without error, ensuring they never make a mistake that could potentially lead to the opposing team scoring. This quote highlights the importance of mental preparation and attention to detail in defensive sports strategies.


The bottom line is that these athletes tend to be safer investments because they really value their marketing opportunities. They don't make as much money as during their active careers.

- Dick Butkus

Line, Bottom, Safer, As Much Money

We're a big check mark on everybody's schedule. I told them it's just another challenge, let's go after it.

- Dick Butkus

Big, Everybody, Another, Mark

Anything that happens that's good, they think, Oh, it's an accident, when is the roof caving in? You've got to get them out of that mental framework.

- Dick Butkus

Think, Roof, Them, Accident

I wouldn't ever set out to hurt anyone deliberately unless it was, you know, important - like a league game or something.

- Dick Butkus

Game, Deliberately, Set, Hurt

I'm not so mean. I wouldn't ever go out to hurt anybody deliberately - unless it was, you know, important, like a league game or something.

- Dick Butkus

Game, Like, Deliberately, Hurt

The real reason for coming to Montour is my love and respect for football.

- Dick Butkus

Love, Reason, Real, Real Reason

My thing is trying to convince them they can win.

- Dick Butkus

Trying, Them, Thing, Convince

When I played pro football, I never set out to hurt anyone deliberately - unless it was, you know, important, like a league game or something.

- Dick Butkus

Game, Deliberately, Set, Pro

If we're not on them, they go back to their old ways.

- Dick Butkus

Go, Old, Ways, Old Ways

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