Mike Ditka, legendary Chicago Bears coach, dies at 86
NBC News • • sports
Key Points:
- Legendary Chicago Bears coach Mike Ditka, who led the team to its only Super Bowl victory in 1986, has died at the age of 86, according to his family. The cause of death was not disclosed.
- Ditka was a Hall of Fame football player and coach, known for his tough, hard-hitting style that embodied Chicago's blue-collar identity, and he remains a beloved figure in the city.
- As head coach, Ditka led the Bears to a dominant 46-10 win over the New England Patriots in Super Bowl XX and was known for his "Bears Football" philosophy emphasizing strong defense and running offense.
- After coaching, Ditka had a successful media career as a football analyst and TV personality, and he was also known for his outspoken conservative political views, including support for Donald Trump.
- Ditka's legacy includes his impact as a player, assistant coach, and head coach, making him the first person inducted into the Pro Football Hall of Fame with Super Bowl wins in all three roles.
