Chicago Bears history with top ten draft picks

Credit: Adam Hunger-USA TODAY Sports

1950-1964

Between 1950 and 1960, the Bears did not have much fortune picking in the top ten. They had eleven top ten picks in that period, but none panned out.

In 1950 and 1951, they had two top ten picks each year, but did not get much out of the players they got. None of the four players selected played more than four seasons for the Bears.

It was not until 1961 that the Bears selected a player that was a staple of the team, and boy, was he ever.

In 1961, the Bears selected a tight end from Pittsburgh. That player was Michael Keller Ditka.

Mike Ditka became a Chicago Bears legend, and one of the most beloved member of the Bears. Ditka was the first tight end to make it to the Hall of Fame. He was a five-time All Pro with the Bears, and won the title in 1963.

It was as a coach of the Bears, however, that Ditka was elevated to God status. He was a two-time Coach of the Year, and he coached the Bears to the Super Bowl, winning Super Bowl XX in the 1985-86 season.

That Super Bowl team was one of the most ferocious, dominant teams ever. They held the record for fewest points allowed, and continued that through the playoffs, allowing just ten points in the entire playoffs, pitching two shutouts.

Ditka is still revered by Chicago Bears fans. He is the only one who was involved in the last two Bears championship teams, playing in 1963 and coaching in 1985. There are not many other Bears who are loved more than Ditka.

Next: 1965