Mike Ditka was a legendary NFL coach who coached the Chicago Bears and New Orleans Saints. The football icon recently passed away at 86. While the Bears won’t have Caleb Williams for Sunday’s game, they are doing something else special for Sunday’s game.
The Bears shared a tribute on social media following the icon’s passing.
“Player. Coach. Legend. Mike Ditka embodied the spirit of Chicago and will be deeply missed,” the team shared following Ditka’s passing.
Mike Ditka embodied the spirit of Chicago and will be deeply missed.
Why Are The Chicago Bears Wearing Number 89 Stickers On Their Helmets vs the Green Bay Packers?
Prior to taking to the field for Sunday’s game, the Bears shared another post on social media showing the 89 sticker on a helmet.
“For 89,” the Bears shared on social media.
Ditka wore number 89 while he played for the Bears. This is why the Bears have the number 89 on their helmets for Sunday’s game vs the Packers.
Mike Ditka’s Life & NFL Career
Ditka is an NFL icon who played and later coached.
The Bears published a press release on Ditka’s life and career.
“Mike’s impact on the Chicago Bears organization, over decades as a player, coach, and proud icon and ambassador for our organization, is immeasurable. His integral role in bringing world championships to our city and our franchise, both as a player and as our coach, established prominence and excellence at a world-class level, but also created a lifetime of cherished memories in the hearts and minds of Bears fans that will last for generations.
“We extend our love, prayers, and heartfelt condolences to the Ditka family, and join all Bears fans in deep sadness and reverence as we remember and honor Mike Ditka,” the team shared in a press release.
“After being selected by the Bears with the fifth overall pick in the 1961 draft out of the University of Pittsburgh, he spent the first six of 12 NFL seasons in Chicago. He was named NFL Rookie of the Year after catching 56 passes for 1,076 yards and 12 touchdowns in 1961, was voted to the Pro Bowl in each of his first five seasons and was chosen All-Pro in 1963 and ’64.”
The best way that the Bears can celebrate the life and career of Ditka is by winning Sunday’s game vs. the Packers.
Why Bears Have Number 89 on Helmets vs Packers