Bears president Ted Phillips released a statement Thursday night on the passing of Hall of Fame guard and NFLPA executive director Gene Upshaw:

"Our hearts go out to Gene's family," Phillips said. "It has been a shock to the entire NFL. We've lost not just a great Hall of Fame player, but an incredible leader of the NFL Players Association. Gene showed a willingness and an ability to work well with the NFL and its ownership to keep labor peace for many years. He will be sorely missed."