Mike Ditka, legendary NFL coach and tight end with the Bears, passes away at age-86
RIP Mike Ditka, 1939-2026.
Legendary NFL coach and tight end Mike Ditka has passed away at the age of 86, according to reports from his son, Jarrett Payton, and confirmed by multiple sources. Ditka's legendary career with the Chicago Bears culminated in a dominant 1985 season, where they finished with a perfect 15-1 regular season record and went on to defeat the New England Patriots 46-10 in Super Bowl XX.
The family released a statement via Jarrett Payton, expressing their profound sadness at Ditka's passing and remembering him as a beloved husband, father, grandfather, and friend. Notably, Ditka was the first Super Bowl-winning coach in Chicago Bears history and remains the only one to this day.
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- From Dyczko to Da Coach: How Mike Ditka became the most Chicago name imaginable sports.yahoo.com
- Mike Ditka, legendary NFL player and coach, dies at 86 abcnews.com
- Mike Ditka, legendary NFL coach and tight end with the Bears, passes away at age-86 sbnation.com
- Famed NFL coach Mike Ditka dead at 86 cbc.ca
