Top Stories · October 9, 2026
Mike Ditka, former Chicago Bears head coach, dies at 86
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Mike Ditka, the Hall of Fame player and head coach who led the Chicago Bears to victory in Super Bowl XX, has died at the age of 86. His family confirmed his passing in a statement, emphasizing his roles as a husband, father, and grandfather. Ditka was a pioneer at the tight end position before transitioning to coaching, where he became one of only two people to win NFL titles as a player, assistant coach, and head coach. Beyond football, he was a well-known television analyst, restaurateur, and commercial spokesperson, particularly in the Chicago area.
Mike Ditka, the Hall of Fame player and head coach who led the Chicago Bears to victory in Super Bowl XX, has died at the age of 86. His family confirmed his passing in a statement, emphasizing his roles as a husband, father, and grandfather. Ditka was a pioneer at the tight end position before transitioning to coaching, where he became one of only two people to win NFL titles as a player, assistant coach, and head coach. Beyond football, he was a well-known television analyst, restaurateur, and commercial spokesperson, particularly in the Chicago area.