Mike Ditka, Bears Super Bowl Coach, Dies at 86

Mike Ditka, the Hall of Fame tight end and coach who led the Chicago Bears to victory in Super Bowl XX, has died at 86, according to reports published Friday. His family announced his passing in a statement, while Jarrett Payton of 104.3 The Score separately reported his death. The reports did not provide independent confirmation beyond those accounts. The family described Ditka as a husband, father, grandfather and friend, and said he would be deeply missed. The National Football League also issued a statement expressing sadness over his passing and sympathy for his family and loved ones. Ditka’s most celebrated coaching achievement came with the 1985 Bears, who won the Super Bowl after a dominant season. Chicago defeated the New England Patriots in Super Bowl XX. Ditka coached the Bears from 1982 through 1992 and was named NFL Coach of the Year in 1985 and 1988. He later coached the New Orleans Saints from 1997 through 1999. Before becoming a coach, Ditka was a standout tight end. The Bears selected him fifth overall in the 1961 NFL draft, and he played for Chicago from 1961 to 1966.