clock menu more-arrow no yes mobile

Filed under:

From the Archives: Jim McMahon talks about Mike Ditka, being traded, and the Super Bowl

Jim McMahon was the starting quarterback for the Super Bowl champion Chicago Bears, and two years later, traded to the San Diego Chargers.

Richard Mackson-US PRESSWIRE

How often does a quarterback win the Super Bowl, and get traded two years later?

Jim McMahon's exit from Chicago was dramatic, to say the least. He suffered a shoulder injury at the hands of Charles Martin in a game versus the Packers in1986, which promptly ended his season. Martin was ejected from that game, and handed the first multiple-game suspension ever from the NFL.

McMahon's remaining time in Chicago was rocky, having fallen out of head coach Mike Ditka's favor, and, to a larger degree, then-president Michael McCaskey.

Jimmy Mac ended up in San Diego, where he wanted to play, but once again had issues with the coaching staff. His off-the-field persona was finally catching up with him, and the performance on the field was not matching up.

McMahon ended up playing for five additional teams after the Chargers, and retired after the 1996 season.

Were you around to witness McMahon's drama with Ditka, and the remainder of his time in the league?