Mike Ditka in sunglassesMike Ditka (Photo by Kena Krutsinger/Getty Images)


Legendary NFL coach Mike Ditka and his family are setting the record straight about rumors of his health.

Over the weekend, a rumor emerged claiming the legendary Chicago Bears tight end entered hospice care and that the end of his life was near.

Ditka has battled a number of health ailments in the past, including suffering a mild heart attack in 2018. Ditka also had a heart attack in 1988 and suffered a minor stroke in 2012.

Luckily, rumors swirling about Mike Ditka were not true.

According to a report from Jarrett Payton, the son of legendary Bears running back Walter Payton, the report claiming Ditka is in hospice care is “not true.”

“I’ve seen reports claiming that Mike Ditka has entered hospice care. I can confirm that these reports are not true,” Payton announced on social media.

Even still, fans sent their prayers out for him.

“Da Coaccccchhhhh is alive and well..” one fan gloriously stated.

“Mike Ditka’s career is marked by his significant contributions to football, both as a player and coach, making him one of the most iconic figures in NFL history. More Importantly Chicago Bear history, let’s keep coach in our prayers! -George,” one fan wrote.

“PRAYERS FOR DITKA: as Chicago Bears legendary TE and DA Coach turned 85 last month, recent rumors have indicated Iron Mike Ditka’s health is in decline and he has recently entered hospice care. Everyone please keep Coach Ditka in your family’s prayers,” another fan stated.

“Keeping Coach Ditka and his family in my prayers,” one fan said.

“Prayers up for Coach and Iron Mike Ditka..,” a fourth fan said.

“Prayers for Coach Ditka,” another commenter said.

A fifth fan wrote, “Prayers for Mike Ditka🙏🏽🙏🏽🙏🏽.”

A sixth person added, “Prayers up for Mike Ditka and his friends and family…”

If that wasn’t good enough, Ditka’s wife, Diana, told the Chicago Sun-Times that he was not in hospice.

“But my husband is NOT in hospice,” Diana told the paper.

Mike Ditka Is A Legend On The Field As A Player And A Coach

Prayers are being sent to Mike Ditka’s way amid his health issues.

The Hall of Fame tight end had quite the career both as a player and a coach.

Ditka played 12 seasons in the NFL and made the Pro Bowl five times. He finished with 427 receptions for 5,812 yards and 43 touchdowns.

Despite his playing career, Ditka might be best known for his coaching career.

He coached the Bears and the New Orleans Saints, finishing with a 121-95 record in 14 years, and he led Chicago to the Super Bowl title after the 1985 season.