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Ditka suffers minor stroke

Bears Hall of Famer Mike Ditka was hospitalized Friday after suffering what he said doctors told him was a "very minor stroke," the Chicago Tribune reported.

Reached by the Tribune Friday night, Ditka said: "I feel good right now and it's not a big deal."

ESPN producer Seth Markman tweeted that Ditka will not be making his regular appearances on the network this weekend, but "he wanted everyone to know he's OK."

Ditka became the first tight end enshrined in the Pro Football Hall of Fame in 1988. He spent the first six seasons of his 12-year NFL career with the Bears after being selected with the fifth overall pick in the 1961 draft.

Ditka revolutionized the tight end position with his pass-catching ability. He was voted to the Pro Bowl in each of his first five seasons with the Bears and was a key member of the 1963 NFL championship team.

Ditka compiled a 112-68 record in 11 seasons as Bears head coach from 1982-92, winning Super Bowl XX in 1985.

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