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Mike Ditka Dies at 86, Bears Honor Legend

By Drooid · Oct 9, 2026, 10:46 PM UTC · How we work

Summary

Mike Ditka Dies

Mike Ditka died at age 86 on Oct. 9, 2026, according to his family.
He became the first Hall of Fame inductee to win a Super Bowl as a player, assistant coach and head coach.
Ditka coached the Chicago Bears to a 15-1 season and a 46-10 Super Bowl XX victory in 1985.
The Bears retired his No. 89 in 2013, saying it would be the last jersey retired.

Summary

Chicago Honors Ditka

Chicago officials lowered the Bears flag to half-staff at Halas Hall.
Mayor Brandon Johnson called Mike Ditka a Chicago hero who loved the city.
Former President Barack Obama posted a tribute noting Ditka set the tone for the 1985 team.
Fans across Chicago recreated Ditka’s iconic sweater-vest look, honoring his lasting cultural imprint.
Agent Steve Mandell recalled Ditka quietly giving money and dinner to friends in need.

History

Historical Context

In 1972, Don Shula’s Miami Dolphins became the NFL’s only team to finish a season undefeated and untied, posting a 14-0 regular-season record, outscoring opponents 385-171 and winning Super Bowl VII for a 17-0 finish. The feat, celebrated when President Barack Obama met the surviving players in 2013, set a benchmark that later dominant squads, such as the 1985 Chicago Bears, have been measured against.

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Mike Ditka Dies

Mike Ditka died at age 86 on Oct. 9, 2026, according to his family.
He became the first Hall of Fame inductee to win a Super Bowl as a player, assistant coach and head coach.
Ditka coached the Chicago Bears to a 15-1 season and a 46-10 Super Bowl XX victory in 1985.
The Bears retired his No. 89 in 2013, saying it would be the last jersey retired.

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