I want to be recognized as the best-no doubt about it. When they say all-pro middle linebacker, I want them to mean Butkus! – Dick Butkus

I wouldnt ever set out to hurt anyone deliberately unless it was, you know, important – Dick Butkus

I worked hard at becoming a professional football player, just like society says you should. It said you had to be fierce. I was fierce. Tough. I was tough. – Dick Butkus