The
To mark the occasion, the first 10,000 supporters to enter the stadium received knit headbands designed to replicate the famous sweater Ditka wore during his 11-season tenure as head coach. In a playful nod to his signature look, every fan in attendance was also provided with a fake mustache, creating a sea of Ditka-inspired tributes throughout the stands.
A nostalgic tribute to a franchise icon
The timing of the tribute carried additional significance, as the Bears hosted the
Right guard Jonah Jackson arrived at the stadium wearing a long-sleeved No. 89 jersey, a direct reference to the number Ditka wore during his distinguished playing career as a tight end. Inside the venue, the stadium's analog clocks were set to 89:00 throughout the pre-game period, serving as a constant visual reminder of the legacy left behind by the man whose number was officially retired by the Bears in December 2013.
Ongoing recognition of a storied career
The tribute on Thursday served as a continuation of the mourning period observed by the team since Ditka’s death. Since Week 5, the current roster has been displaying a No. 89 sticker on the back of their helmets, and players have also added a commemorative patch over the heart of their navy jerseys to honor his memory.
Ditka remains a central figure in the history of the organization, holding the distinction of being the final player to have his number retired by the Bears, who have retired more jersey numbers than any other team in the NFL. The collective efforts of the fans and the organization ensured that the evening served as a fitting celebration of a career that remains deeply woven into the fabric of Chicago football.
