NFL pays respect to legendary Bears coach Mike Ditka

Summarised from 2 outlets · Updated 12 Oct, 05:00 · Archive

Mike Ditka, the legendary Chicago Bears coach who won the team's only Super Bowl, died on Friday at 86.

Mike Ditka, the legendary Chicago Bears coach, died on Friday at the age of 86. The Green Bay Packers held a moment of silence before their game against the Bears on Sunday, which marked the Bears' first game since his passing. Despite the fierce rivalry between the two franchises dating to 1921, the Packers paid their respects to their former nemesis.

Before the Week 5 matchup at Lambeau Field, the public address system announced: 'Ladies and gentlemen, the Green Bay Packers and the NFL community are saddened to learn of the passing of Pro Football Hall of Famer Mike Ditka. We extend our sincere condolences to his family, friends, and the entire Chicago Bears organization.' The moment of silence concluded with applause from the crowd.

A tribute was also displayed on the stadium's video boards and shared on Fox's broadcast of the game. NFL fans praised the Packers for the respectful gesture. One fan posted on social media: '[The] Packers are all class for doing this for the #Bears and Mike Ditka.' Fans attending the game in Green Bay dressed in Ditka costumes featuring his iconic 1980s Bears sweater, fake mustaches and cigars. The New Orleans Saints, which Ditka coached from 1997 to 1999, similarly held a moment of silence before their home game against the Minnesota Vikings.

How it is being reported

• Green Bay Packers hailed for 'classy move' over tribute to legendary Chicago Bears head coach Mike DitkaDespite the fierce rivalry between the two teams, Green Bay honored their former nemesis ahead of the matchup, which marked the Bears' first game since his passing.Daily Mail Sport · 12 Oct, 04:40
• Mike Ditka tributes pour in from around the NFL including fans dressing like him in Green BayFans in Green Bay donned classic Mike Ditka costumes with sweaters, mustaches, and cigars as the Packers held a moment of silence before kickoff.Fox News · 11 Oct, 19:48

In this story: Mike Ditka · Chicago Bears · Green Bay Packers · New Orleans Saints · Green Bay

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