NFL Fans Honor Mike Ditka During Bears Packers Rivalry

Fans and NFL teams paid tribute to former Chicago Bears coach Mike Ditka following his death at age 86 on Friday, with supporters wearing his recognizable 1980s Bears-inspired look before Sunday's game between Chicago and the Green Bay Packers in Green Bay. The tributes honored Ditka's legacy as a Hall of Fame figure and celebrated his lasting connection with the Bears.

Some fans wore classic Bears sweaters, mustaches, and sunglasses, while others carried cigars to recreate Ditka's familiar appearance. The costumes were intended as expressions of admiration rather than mockery, reflecting the former coach's enduring place in the franchise's history.

Before kickoff, the Packers organized a tribute to Ditka despite the longstanding rivalry between the two teams, which dates to 1921. Members of the University of Wisconsin band stood at attention as the stadium public address system delivered a statement on his passing.

"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," the announcement said. "We extend our sincere condolences to his family, friends, and the entire Chicago Bears organization.

"At this time please join in a moment of silence."

The moment of silence concluded with applause from the crowd. The gesture came from a fan base whose team has spent decades competing against Ditka's Bears in one of the NFL's most established rivalries.

The Chicago Bears also recognized their former coach on Sunday. Players wore No. 89 helmet decals honoring Ditka's retired number, while coach Ben Johnson reportedly showed the team a tribute video during a meeting Saturday night.

Chicago's organization had begun commemorating Ditka on Friday, lowering its flag to half-staff at Halas Hall and displaying a memorial image outside Soldier Field. The team described his impact as "immeasurable."

Johnson also praised Ditka's standing within the organization, calling him "the gold standard" and saying he felt humbled to occupy the same chair.

The New Orleans Saints, whom Ditka coached from 1997-99, held a moment of silence before their home game against the Minnesota Vikings. Television networks broadcasting NFL games on Sunday also paid tribute to the former coach.

In the Chicago area, fans gathered at Ditka's Oak Brook restaurant to remember him. A local business also organized a Ditka trivia event and giveaways featuring signed jerseys.