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.
Using rare behind-the-scenes footage, The Underdog captures the energy and camaraderie that defined the Bears, as well as Singletary’s critical role in that squad. The documentary revisits the famous “46 Defense” orchestrated by defensive coordinator Buddy Ryan and how Singletary was the perfect embodiment of that aggressive, unyielding style.
It also touches on Singletary’s memorable moments during the playoffs and Super Bowl XX, where the Bears crushed the New England Patriots 46-10. Singletary’s leadership on the field, vocal presence, and iconic “eye of the tiger” stare became symbolic of the team’s dominance.
Legacy Beyond Playing
After retiring as a player, Mike Singletary remained a prominent figure in football. His coaching career, though marked by challenges, further illustrates his commitment to the game and his desire to shape young athletes.
The Underdog doesn’t shy away from the complexities of Singletary’s coaching journey. It highlights his head coaching tenure with the San Francisco 49ers, where he was respected for his passion but faced difficult seasons. The documentary also examines his influence on players and the lessons he imparted, which often transcended football and touched on life, discipline, and character.
Singletary’s faith and community involvement are also featured prominently, showcasing how he used his platform to mentor youth, advocate for education, and inspire others through speaking engagements and charitable work.
Cultural Impact and Influence
Mike Singletary’s influence extends well beyond the football field. The documentary explores his role as a cultural icon in Chicago and the broader sports world. Singletary has been a symbol of discipline, perseverance, and humility—a role model to countless fans and athletes.
Through interviews with sports journalists, cultural commentators, and fans, The Underdog illustrates how Singletary’s approach to leadership and his embodiment of integrity made him a beloved figure not just in Chicago but across the NFL and beyond.
Behind the Scenes: Netflix’s Commitment to Sports Documentaries
Netflix has been steadily expanding its roster of acclaimed sports documentaries, and The Underdog is poised to become one of its flagship projects. The platform’s investment in stories that combine athletic excellence with human drama has paid off with successes like The Last Dance about Michael Jordan and the Chicago Bulls, and Formula 1: Drive to Survive.
With The Underdog, Netflix continues its commitment to exploring powerful narratives in sports, capturing the hearts of viewers who crave more than just game highlights—they want the full story, the human side of competition, sacrifice, and triumph.
Release Date and Availability
Netflix has announced that The Underdog will premiere on their streaming service on November 10, 2025. The documentary will be available worldwide in multiple languages, with subtitles and dubbed options to reach a broad global audience.
The film will be accompanied by bonus features including extended interviews, unseen archival footage, and a Q&A session with Mike Singletary himself, available exclusively on Netflix.
Fan and Media Reactions
The announcement of The Underdog has been met with enthusiastic reactions from Bears fans, NFL analysts, and sports media. Social media platforms have been buzzing with excitement, with many calling Singletary “one of the greatest linebackers ever” and expressing anticipation for a documentary that does justice to his legacy.
Prominent sports commentators have praised Netflix’s decision to spotlight Singletary, noting that his story embodies the perseverance and leadership qualities often overlooked in mainstream sports narratives.
Why “The Underdog”?
The title The Underdog encapsulates the essence of Mike Singletary’s story—a player who was never the most hyped, most celebrated recruit, or the flashiest athlete, but who made his mark through sheer determination, discipline, and an unbreakable will.
This theme resonates deeply in sports culture and beyond, symbolizing the struggle and eventual triumph against odds. The documentary invites viewers to root for the underdog in all of us, drawing inspiration from Singletary’s journey.
The Underdog is more than just a documentary about football. It is a tribute to a man who exemplified leadership, resilience, and integrity both on and off the field. Netflix’s upcoming release promises to deliver an inspiring, raw, and emotional experience that honors Mike Singletary’s unparalleled legacy and his lasting impact on the game of football and the lives of those he touched.
For fans eager to relive the glory days of the Chicago Bears and for those new to Mike Singletary’s story, The Underdog will be a must-watch when it drops this November.
Stay tuned for more updates as Netflix rolls out trailers and exclusive content in the coming months.