NEW BUFFALO, Mich. -- Blackjack is a game of chance. Mike Ditka and some other NFL legends are using the blackjack tables to help those who have been dealt a bad hand.

"These guys are close to my heart because I played against these guys. I played with a lot of these guys, and they have severe problems," Ditka says.

Da coach's Gridiron Greats Assistance Fund helps retired football players who are in dire need.

"These people made the game what it is today," says former Bears RB Gale Sayers. "The people that play the game today are standing on their shoulders. We're trying to make sure that these fellows get the proper help."

Four Winds Casino is lending a helping hand by donating close to $40,000 to the cause.

"I don't gamble like I used to because i'm not chasing that elusive monkey of life anymore," Ditka admits. "I found him — he's in a tree somewhere. I call myself the ultimate player loser."

While Ditka may be a player loser, everybody at Four Winds Casino turned out to be a winner.