In a move that has electrified both the sports and entertainment worlds, Netflix has officially announced the release of The Underdog, a highly anticipated documentary chronicling the life and career of Chicago Bears legend Mike Singletary. Set to premiere on Netflix later this year, the film promises an intimate and compelling portrait of one of the National Football League’s most iconic and revered linebackers.
For Bears fans, football enthusiasts, and those fascinated by stories of grit and perseverance, The Underdog will offer a powerful exploration of Singletary’s journey from humble beginnings to Hall of Fame greatness. This documentary also sheds light on the trials and triumphs that shaped the man behind the helmet and the legacy that continues to inspire new generations.
Who is Mike Singletary?
Mike Singletary, often known simply as “Samurai Mike” for his relentless playing style and piercing gaze, is a towering figure in NFL history. Born on October 9, 1958, in Houston, Texas, Singletary rose from a modest background to become one of the most feared linebackers in the league. His playing career, spanning from 1981 to 1992—all with the Chicago Bears—cemented his status as a defensive stalwart and a cornerstone of the legendary 1985 Bears team that won Super Bowl XX.
Singletary’s on-field intensity was matched only by his leadership and intellect. Known for his exceptional instincts, communication skills, and unwavering work ethic, he was the emotional heart and soul of the Bears’ defense, which many consider one of the greatest in NFL history.
The Documentary’s Vision
Netflix’s The Underdog promises a deep dive into not only Singletary’s career highlights but also his personal struggles, philosophies, and impact off the field. The film’s director, award-winning filmmaker Jessica Ramirez, shared in a recent interview that the documentary seeks to portray “the full human story behind the legend.”
“Mike’s story is not just about football,” Ramirez said. “It’s about resilience, leadership, and faith. It’s about how a young man from Houston transformed adversity into strength and became a symbol of dedication and integrity. Our goal was to bring viewers as close as possible to Mike’s world—both on the gridiron and in his private life.”
Exclusive Access and Interviews
One of the major highlights of The Underdog is the access Netflix gained to Singletary himself, his family, former teammates, coaches, and close friends. The documentary features candid interviews with NFL greats such as Walter Payton, who was Singletary’s teammate and fellow Hall of Famer, as well as Mike Ditka, the iconic coach who led the ’85 Bears to glory.
In addition, former Bears players like Richard Dent, Dan Hampton, and Steve McMichael offer firsthand accounts of Singletary’s leadership and his role in shaping one of the most formidable defensive units in NFL history.
Family members provide a glimpse into the man behind the myth, discussing Singletary’s upbringing, faith, and the challenges he faced as a husband and father. The documentary also touches on his coaching career, which included head coaching stints with the San Francisco 49ers and Memphis University, highlighting his continued passion for football and mentorship.
A Story of Overcoming Adversity
The Underdog focuses heavily on Singletary’s early life, which was marked by hardship. Growing up in Houston’s tough neighborhoods, Singletary faced economic challenges, a turbulent family environment, and the pressures that often accompany young African American men pursuing athletic success.
The film depicts how football was more than a game for Mike—it was a path to escape difficulties and to prove himself against the odds. His dedication to mastering the linebacker position is shown through archival footage, detailed play analyses, and personal reflections.
Singletary’s reputation as a hard-nosed player with a fierce competitive spirit is also contextualized by stories of perseverance and overcoming obstacles. His rise from a lightly recruited college player to an NFL draft pick and eventual superstar is portrayed with nuance, emphasizing the mental and emotional grit required to reach the pinnacle of professional sports.
The 1985 Bears: A Defining Era
Of course, no story about Mike Singletary would be complete without an in-depth look at the 1985 Chicago Bears—the team often hailed as one of the greatest in NFL history. The documentary devotes significant time to this iconic season, including the Bears’ dominant defense, their charismatic personalities, and the cultural impact they had on the city of Chicago and the league at large.