Remembering 'Da Coach': Mike Ditka, Chicago icon and NFL legend, dies at 86
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Mike Ditka gets carried off the field after they defeated the New England Patriots in Super Bowl XX on Jan. 26, 1986. Photo: Focus on Sport/Getty Images
Mike Ditka, one of Chicago's most iconic celebrities, died Friday after years of health issues, including heart attacks and strokes, according to The Score radio station. He was 86.
Why it matters: The former Bears player and coach left a lasting impression on Chicago sports and culture, presiding over one of the best football teams in NFL history.
Catch up quick: Ditka was drafted by the Bears in 1961. The tight end quickly became a star in Chicago, helping the team win the 1963 NFL championship.
- He still holds the record for the most receiving yards by a tight end in franchise history.
- He was traded to the Eagles in 1967 and ended up with the Dallas Cowboys, where he won two Super Bowls as a player and an assistant coach.
In 1982, Coach Ditka was hired by the Bears' then-owner George Halas. Three years later, his "Monsters of the Midway" won a Super Bowl. The 1985 Bears are considered one of the greatest NFL teams of all time.
- In his 11 seasons as coach of the Bears, he went 112-68.
- Ditka was inducted into the Pro Football Hall of Fame in 1988.
Zoom out: To measure Coach Ditka's career by stats would be a gross retelling of his achievements in Chicago.
- The larger-than-life personality not only won football games, but he provided colorful quotes, became a national spokesperson for brands like Coors and Wilson Sporting Goods, opened restaurants, wrote books and starred in television and films.
The intrigue: Ditka's style also played a role in his legendary status.
- His slicked-back hair, blue blocker sunglasses and trademarked mustache have come to represent Chicago, a walking metaphor embodying the hard-nosed, working-class mentality residents love to emulate.
If New Jersey has Bruce Springsteen and Philadelphia cheers on Rocky Balboa, then Chicago has "Da Coach."
Reality check: Ditka also had his share of public controversies. His sideline outbursts and public criticism of his players and coaches were not received well, and the coach was charged with a DUI in 1985.
- Later in life, he got involved in GOP politics and reportedly considered a run against then-Sen. Barack Obama.
The vibe: Ditka also loved to clash with the local media, sparring with beat writers and sometimes, even fans.
Yes, but: His candor led to some amazing quotes.
On the media: "What's the difference between a 3-week-old puppy and a sportswriter? In six weeks, the puppy stops whining."
On his injured star quarterback Jim McMahon: "The shoulder surgery was a success. The lobotomy failed."
On life: "I don't care what you've done in your life, it has nothing to do with what you're gonna do or what you can do. The past is history, tomorrow is a mystery. But today is a gift that's why they call it the present."
The bottom line: Mike Ditka is the poster child for the fame and fortune that comes from winning in Chicago.
- Hopefully there will be more championships in Chicago's future, but there may never be another coach like Ditka.