The Chicago Bears are honoring franchise legend Mike Ditka on what would've been his 87th birthday. To mark the occasion, they introduced new uniform patches. These patches celebrate one of the team’s most influential figures.
On Sunday, the Bears posted a tribute on social media. Specifically, they shared a photo of the new patches with the caption, “New patches honoring Da Coach 💙.”
In another post, they wrote, “Remembering Da Coach on his 87th birthday 💙.”
Remembering Da Coach on his 87th birthday 💙 pic.twitter.com/zxps4N0Hwx
— Chicago Bears (@ChicagoBears) October 18, 2026
Ditka died on Oct. 9, 2026, at age 86. He leaves a remarkable legacy as a Hall of Fame tight end and a Super Bowl-winning head coach. The new patch shows Ditka’s retired No. 89, honoring his contributions to the team as both a player and coach. Earlier, the Bears wore a No. 89 helmet decal during their Week 5 game against the Green Bay Packers. Since then, the tribute has appeared on their jerseys.
Ditka will always be one of the most iconic figures in Bears history. After he joined Chicago as the fifth pick in the 1961 NFL Draft, he quickly became one of the league’s top tight ends. He won the NFL Rookie of the Year award and also became the first tight end inducted into the Pro Football Hall of Fame in 1988.
Ditka’s influence in Chicago went beyond his playing days. As head coach, he led the Bears to a 15-1 season in 1985. They also won 46-10 over the New England Patriots in Super Bowl XX. Looking ahead, the Bears plan to continue honoring Ditka when they return to Soldier Field to face the Patriots on Oct. 22.
As Chicago remembers Da Coach, the new uniform patches offer a lasting tribute to a legend. His impact on the team and its fans endures. Ultimately, Ditka’s contributions will never be forgotten.