The Chicago Bears are making a trade. One McCaskey for another.
Michael McCaskey, the man responsible for firing coach Mike Ditka, is stepping down as president of the organization.
"It's been 27 years and just a time of -- a very important time in my life," Michael McCaskey said at an afternoon press conference. "Today comes a day that has some excitement and some sadness."
The 66-year-old will be replaced by his younger brother, George Halas McCaskey, who has been the team’s ticket manager for years. He's on the nine-member board of directors and is well-liked at Halas Hall.
The elder McCaskey said he feels good about leaving the franchise in the hands of a legacy.
"I think family owned franchises in the NFL are one of its great strengths. The Rooneys, Maras, McCaskeys, they know what it's about. My mom (Virginia) is going to pass away at some point. It's going to happen to all of us, so let's have a succession plan."
Virginia McCaskey appointed Michael McMaskey the president and CEO of the organization in 1983, when George Halas, one of the founders of the NFL, died. He was removed as CEO in 1993 when botched the hiring of Dave McGinnis as head coach.
