Mike Ditka was hospitalized Wednesday in Florida because of a heart ailment, according to reports by the Chicago Sun-Times and WGN-9.
The iconic former Bears coach suffered a heart attack, WGN reported, citing anonymous sources. Ditka reportedly is recovering and expected to be released from the hospital in several days.
"Coach Ditka had a mild heart attack earlier this week," his agent, Steve Mandell, told ESPN's Adam Schefter. "Doctors inserted a pacemaker and he is doing much better. He appreciates the outpouring of support and expects to be home soon."
Jarrett Payton, WGN reporter and son of late Bears great Walter Payton, tweeted confirmation that Ditka is in the hospital and is "doing well."
Ditka previously suffered a heart attack Nov 2, 1988, and famously returned to the Bears sideline 11 days later. He turned 79 on Oct. 19.
