10 Controversial Moves Mike Ditka Made as Head Coach of Bears and Saints

Legendary NFL player and coach Mike Ditka died at 86, his family announced on Friday.

By Andre Castillo · Sportskeeda

Published: Saturday, 10 October 2026 at 12:52 PM

Key Things to Know

Andre Castillo highlights ten controversial moments and decisions from Mike Ditka's NFL head coaching tenures.
Ditka frequently clashed with defensive coordinator Buddy Ryan during their 1985 Chicago Bears championship season.
The head coach alienated portions of the Bears fanbase by trading starting quarterback Jim McMahon in 1989.

The Story in 60 Seconds

Andre Castillo reviews the ten most controversial moments and decisions from Mike Ditka's tenures coaching the Chicago Bears and New Orleans Saints. While Ditka achieved significant success by guiding the Bears to a Super Bowl victory in 1986, his head coaching career was frequently punctuated by volatile arguments, combative clashes with fans and media, and high-profile feuds with rivals.

Key incidents highlighted include Ditka's sideline clash with defensive coordinator Buddy Ryan, trading away quarterback Jim McMahon in 1989, and surrendering an entire draft class to select running back Ricky Williams in 1999.

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10 Controversial Moves Mike Ditka Made as Head Coach of Bears and Saints

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