Dan Campbell Shares Emotional Memory of Mike Ditka
The Lions coach recalled a memorable meeting with the Bears legend during the 1999 NFL draft process.
Detroit Lions coach Dan Campbell became emotional during a press conference when he learned of the death of Hall of Fame football coach Mike Ditka, who passed away Friday at age 86.
Campbell shared a "great" memory of meeting Ditka during the pre-draft process in 1999, when Ditka was coaching the New Orleans Saints. Campbell, then a tight end prospect from Texas A&M, recalled Ditka specifically wanting to meet with him.
"Somebody that I just loved growing up. Ditka was it. Huge fan," Campbell said ahead of Detroit's Week 5 game against the Arizona Cardinals. "Tight end, hell of a player, hell of a coach, the whole thing."
Campbell described walking into a dimly lit room at a train station, filled with smoke from Ditka's "big fat cigar." He recounted the intimidating yet "awesome" experience of sitting across from Ditka, who questioned him about his upbringing, mindset, and understanding of the game.
"He’s a legend," Campbell added, offering his thoughts and prayers to Ditka's family.
The New York Giants ultimately selected Campbell in the third round of the 1999 NFL draft. The Saints, meanwhile, traded multiple draft picks to acquire Ricky Williams. Ditka's death was announced by Jarrett Payton, son of Walter Payton, a Hall of Fame running back who played under Ditka with the Chicago Bears.
Ditka, a native of Pennsylvania, led the Chicago Bears to their only Super Bowl victory in 1986. He was inducted into the Pro Football Hall of Fame in 1988 as the first tight end to receive the honor. He also played tight end for the Bears, Cowboys, and Eagles during his NFL career.