Sportsnaut
Along with the Arizona Cardinals, the Chicago Bears are the NFL’s oldest franchise. Both teams were founded in 1920. The Cardinals weren’t always based in Arizona though. They’ve been in Chicago, St. Louis, and Phoenix before settling down in Arizona in 1994.
While they spent their first season as the Decatur Staleys (later changed to Chicago Staleys in 1921), the Bears have always operated in Illinois. That could be changing soon.
According to a letter sent out to Bears season-ticket holders, team president Kevin Warren revealed that their proposed stadium for Arlington Heights will not be a priority in 2026. Making matters worse, the Bears will be expanding their stadium location search to other destinations, including the state of Indiana.
In a letter to season-ticket holders, #Bears president/CEO Kevin Warren says Illinois state leadership told the team its proposed stadium in Arlington Heights won’t be a priority in 2026.
Warren says, consequently, the team will expand its search, including Northwest Indiana. pic.twitter.com/EWTEsriRSv
— Mike Garafolo (@MikeGarafolo) December 17, 2025
The Bears are one of the most iconic, recognizable franchises in sports. We can’t imagine a world where they’re not known as the Chicago Bears anymore. Plus, Indiana already has a team. Is there really enough space for two NFL teams in Indiana? How long would it be until the Indianapolis Colts feel like they need to find a new home?
Ultimately, this is an issue that the Bears need to figure out with the state of Illinois; they can’t leave Chicago. It just wouldn’t be right.
Related: 2025 NFL Report Card: Grading All 32 Teams Before Week 16
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