Ditka became one of Chicago’s most recognizable sports figures during a career defined by physical play, fiery leadership and success as both a player and coach.
Published: 10/9/2026, 1:18:18 PM EDT
Chicago Bears head coach Mike Ditka strikes a prayerful pose as he watches the team workout in New Orleans on Jan. 26, 1986, before the start of NFL football's Super Bowl XX. (Rob Kozloff/AP Photo)
Mike Ditka, the Hall of Fame tight end who later coached the Chicago Bears to one of the most celebrated championships in NFL history, has died. He was 86.
“It is with profound sadness that we announce the passing of our beloved husband, father, grandfather, and friend, Mike Ditka,” his family said Friday. “While the world knew Mike as a Hall of Fame football player, legendary coach, and leader of the Chicago Bears’ Super Bowl XX championship team, we knew him as the heart of our family. Mike will be missed beyond measure and remembered forever.”
Ditka became one of Chicago’s most recognizable sports figures during a career defined by physical play, fiery leadership, and success as both a player and coach. Known first as “Iron Mike” and later as “Da Coach,” he helped transform how NFL teams used tight ends before leading the 1985 Bears to a Super Bowl title.
_The Associated Press contributed to this report._