According to his agent, Pro Football Hall of Famer Mike Ditka is recovering from a heart attack he suffered this week. "Coach Ditka had a mild heart attack earlier this week. Doctors inserted a pacemaker, and he is doing much better," Steve Mandell, Ditka's agent, stated this morning. "He appreciates the outpouring of support and expects to be home soon."
According to multiple reports, Ditka is receiving care in a Florida hospital while he awaits his medical clearance. At 79 years old, this is Ditka's second heart attack; the last he suffered 30 years ago, in 1988.
Ditka's illustrious career has seen him win the Super Bowl as both the player and coach of the Chicago Bears. His 1985 team which included players such as William Perry and Mike Singletary, is regarded as perhaps the scariest defense ever assembled at the pro level. They were also famous for performing this hilariously bad proto-rap song. the "Super Bowl Shuffle."
After coaching the Bears for over a decade, Ditka has turned his attention on-air analysis, first as a member of NBC's football coverage, then as a noted figure on ESPN up until the 2016 season. We wish him all the best, and most importantly, a return to full health.