Mike Ditka

In 1997, Mike Ditka was named the twelfth head coach in New Orleans Saints history. Ditka's 112 career victories are the fifth-most among active head coaches entering the 1997 season.

He is one of just two people (Tom Flores) to have won a Super Bowl ring as a head coach, assistant coach, and player. All three of Ditka's Super Bowl triumphs have taken place in New Orleans. Ditka came to New Orleans after a four-year stint as a broadcaster with NBC. He was the head coach of the Chicago Bears for eleven seasons (1982-92). The Bears won the NFC Central Division five consecutive seasons (1984-88) and reached the playoffs seven times during Ditka's tenure. The 1985 Bears finished with a 15-1 record and won Super Bowl XX at the Superdome when they defeated the New England Patriots 46-10. Ditka began his pro coaching career as an assistant with the Dallas Cowboys (1973-81). The Cowboys won SuperBowl XII, at the Superdome, when they defeated the Denver Broncos 27-10. As a NFL player, Mike Ditka was chosen in the first round with the fifth overall pick of the 1961 draft by the Chicago Bears. The tight end earned rookie of the year honors by hauling in 56 receptions. Ditka was traded to Philadelphia and played for two seasons (1967-68).

From 1969-72 Mike Ditka played for the Cowboys. Dallas defeated Miami 24-3 to capture Super Bowl VI at Tulane Stadium in New Orleans. In that game, Ditka caught a 7-yard touchdown pass from Roger Staubach.

Background
Mike Ditka played tight end at Pittsburgh (1958-60), where he earned all-America honors his senior season. Ditka also played defensive end, linebacker, and ranked among the nation's top punters. He attended Aliquippa High School, where he lettered in football, baseball, and basketball.

Personal
Born October 18, 1939, in Carneige, Pa. Mike Ditka and his wife, Diana, live in Metairie, La., and have four children-sons Mike, Mark, and Matthew, and daughter Megan.

Career record
106-62 .631

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