Lions' Dan Campbell recalls 'intimidating' interview with Mike Ditka
Mike Ditka was coach of the New Orleans Saints when he interviewed Dan Campbell before the 1999 NFL draft.
Dan Campbell, a former college football player at Texas A&M, had his first NFL meeting with Mike Ditka during the 1999 draft combine. Ditka, a Pro Football Hall of Fame inductee and former Chicago Bears coach, was conducting his final pre-draft interview at the time. Upon entering the Saints interview room, Campbell was greeted by a dimly lit space with a single lamp in the corner and thick smoke filling the area.
Sitting across from Ditka, clad in a cigar, Campbell described the experience as both an amazing and intimidating moment. Ditka, who played for the Bears, Eagles, and Cowboys during his 12-season NFL career, was known for his intense and authentic personality. Campbell honored Ditka's legacy, reflecting on the legendary coach's impact on the game and his contributions to the community through the Gridiron Greats Assistance Fund.
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- Lions' Dan Campbell recalls 'intimidating' interview with Mike Ditka sports.yahoo.com
