Mike Ditka

Many truisms can be used to define Mike Ditka. He is known for being callous, strong and legendary. Although he grew up in a small working-class family, he would use these humbling everyday experiences as a motivator to become not only a Bears legend, but one of the most unforgettable sport icons of the United States of America. As a young boy, he played every sport he could, topping in every single one of them. However, he realized that his true passion was football - a sport that he not only loved but wished to build a career in. He soon went on to make a mark in football when he was selected in the first-round draft pick. Additionally, he gave a new life and meaning to the tight end position; one that was viewed primarily as a task for a tough, rugged blocker. Throughout his early career, he garnered respectable numbers for his position and became one of the most valuable players with the Bears. He soon became one of the two people who went on to win the NFL title as a player and also as a coach. He is currently the only player in NFL history to win a tournament with the same team as player and a head coach.