Bears legend Buddy Ryan dies at age 85

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He was the architect of the “46” defense that was the signature of arguably the greatest defense in NFL history, and who was beloved by his players, who responded to his tough love with one epic performance after another.
 
Now, after suffering a stroke and fighting cancer the past couple of years, legendary Bears defensive coordinator Buddy Ryan has died at age 85, agent Jim Solano confirmed on Tuesday.

Ryan was the Bears' defensive coordinator from 1978-85, leaving after the Super Bowl XX victory to become the head coach of the Philadelphia Eagles.

Check out Ryan's unique path to the Bears and the letter that kept him in Chicago.

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