Countdown to the season opener: Day 73 Mike Ditka

We’re counting down to the season opener (Day 73) with some Cowboys history

We’re counting down the days until the Dallas Cowboys battle the Philadelphia Eagles in the season opener of the 2025 NFL season. To pass the time and mark the days, we running through 100 Days of Cowboys. So sit back and enjoy some Cowboys history while we countdown to football.

Today – number 73.

Mike Ditka

Born: October 18, 1939. Carnegie, Pennsylvania
Position: Tight end
Dallas Cowboys: 1969-1972
Awards: Super Bowl champion- VI, XII, XX (as coach)
All-Pro- 1962, 1963, 1964, 1965
Pro Bowl– 1961, 1962, 1963, 1964, 1965
NFL 75th Anniversary All-Time Team
NFL 100th Anniversary All-Time Team

Photo by James Flores/Getty Images

Mike Ditka played tight end for the Dallas Cowboys from 1969 to 1972, joining the team near the end of his Hall of Fame playing career. Though no longer in his prime, Ditka provided leadership, toughness, and a physical edge to the offense. He was a key contributor in short-yardage and blocking situations and played an important supporting role during the Cowboys’ rise to prominence under Tom Landry. Ditka helped Dallas win its first Super Bowl title in Super Bowl VI and added veteran grit to a young, talented roster.

Best known for:
Ditka was best known in Dallas for being a veteran leader who brought experience to the Cowboys offense, helping guide the team to its first Super Bowl victory in the 1971 season.

Lesser known fact:
While playing for the Cowboys, Ditka began developing a strong relationship with head coach Tom Landry, so much so that after retiring Landry hired him as an assistant coach in 1973, launching Ditka’s legendary coaching career. This would not only help Dallas win Super Bowl XII, he would eventually get a Super Bowl win as head coach whilst with the Chicago Bears.