From AV Club · · 1m 30s
R.I.P. Mike Ditka, Chicago Bears Coach
Mike Ditka, legendary Chicago Bears coach and Hall of Fame player, dies at 86 after 50-year career.
In brief
Mike Ditka, legendary Chicago Bears coach and Hall of Fame player, dies at 86 after 50-year career. Mike Ditka, former Chicago Bears head coach and Hall of Fame football player, died at 86. Originally reported by AV Club.
Mike Ditka dies at 86
Mike Ditka, former Chicago Bears head coach, died at 86 after a statement was posted on X by his family.
“It is with profound sadness that we announce the passing of our beloved husband, father, grandfather, and friend, Mike Ditka”
Ditka's football career
Ditka played for the Pitt Panthers at the University of Pittsburgh before becoming a Chicago Bears coach.
“Michael Keller Ditka’s storied career took shape during high school in the steel town of Aliquippa, Pennsylvania”
Ditka's early coaching
Ditka coached the Chicago Bears from 1982 to 1992, leading them to their first Super Bowl title in 1985.
“His biggest achievement, arguably, and one that remains among the most defining moments for the team, was leading the Bears to the franchise’s first and, to date, only Super Bowl title in 1985”
Ditka's rivalry with Buddy Ryan
Ditka had a contentious relationship with Bears defensive coordinator Buddy Ryan, leading to his firing in 1993.
“I’m not happy he’s gone, I’m elated”
Ditka's time with the Saints
Ditka coached the New Orleans Saints from 1997 to 1999, but had a disastrous season with seven quarterbacks.
“After a grueling 3, 13 season in 1999, the Saints and Ditka parted ways”
Ditka's endorsements
Ditka endorsed Budweiser, McDonald’s, Campbell’s soups, and Levitra in commercials throughout his career.
“Do what I did, and ask your doctor about Levitra!”
Ditka's restaurant business
Ditka opened Ditka’s restaurant in Chicago in 1986, which became a regional chain of steakhouses.
“Ditka’s, his first restaurant, opened in October 1986 on Ontario Street in Chicago”
Ditka's family
Ditka is survived by his wife Diana and four children with his first wife Marge Dougherty.
“He is survived by his wife, Diana, and his four children with his first wife, Marge Dougherty”
Ditka's legacy
Ditka’s career spanned 50 years, including a Super Bowl win and Hall of Fame induction in 1988.
“Ditka was also inducted into the Pro Football Hall of Fame in 1988, as the first tight end to ever receive the honor”
The essence
Mike Ditka, former Chicago Bears head coach and Hall of Fame football player, died at 86.
