ABC · updated 2026-10-10

NFL Legend Mike Ditka Dies at 86

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“NFL LEGEND MIKE DITKA DIES AT 86”

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This storyWhat defined Mike Ditka's legacy most?

  • Super Bowl XX champion coach 0%
  • Pro Bowl tight end pioneer 0%
  • That legendary mustache & fire 0%
  • Voice of Chicago's soul 0%

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Mike Ditka auctioned his 1985 Super Bowl ring to aid Hurricane Katrina victims

Ditka won Super Bowls as player, assistant, AND head coach!

One of football's rarest feats! Ditka played for the '63 Bears, assisted Tom Landry's Cowboys, then led Chicago to their iconic 1985 Super Bowl title. Learn more at Wikipedia

Ditka earned ~$12,000/yr — less than one modern NFL game check.

In the early 1960s, the NFL minimum salary was under $7,000. Today's top tight ends earn $15M+ per year. The entire Bears payroll then was less than one player's modern signing bonus.

Topic poll · all networksDitka's '85 Bears won Super Bowl XX by how many points?

  1. 12 points
  2. 24 points
  3. 36 points
  4. 45 points
Guess, then reveal the answer

36 points

Topic poll · all networksWhat cemented Mike Ditka's NFL legend?

  • Coaching the '85 Bears dynasty 0%
  • Changing tight end play forever 0%
  • His fiery sideline personality 0%
  • Winning rings as player & coach 0%

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