American football legend Mike Ditka, the former Chicago Bears head coach and Pro Football Hall of Fame tight end, has died at the age of 86.
His family announced his death on Friday, October 9, 2026, describing him as a beloved husband, father, grandfather and friend. The cause of death had not been disclosed at the time of reporting.
Ditka earned a lasting place in NFL history as both a player and a coach, becoming one of the most recognisable figures associated with the Chicago Bears.
He played for the Bears from 1961 to 1966, establishing himself as an exceptional tight end. His rookie season was particularly impressive, with 56 receptions for 1,076 yards and 12 touchdowns, earning him Rookie of the Year honours.
He later played for the Philadelphia Eagles and Dallas Cowboys, winning a Super Bowl with Dallas in the 1971 season. In 1988, he became the first tight end inducted into the Pro Football Hall of Fame.
However, Ditka's coaching career cemented his reputation as an NFL icon.
Appointed Chicago Bears head coach in 1982, he guided the team to seven playoff appearances during his tenure. His defining achievement came in 1985, when the Bears recorded a 15-1 regular-season record before defeating the New England Patriots 46-10 in Super Bowl XX.
The championship team remains one of the most celebrated in NFL history.
Ditka subsequently coached the New Orleans Saints from 1997 to 1999 before moving into broadcasting and other business ventures.
Nicknamed “Iron Mike” for his competitive nature, he remained closely associated with Chicago football long after leaving the sidelines.
