Chicago Bears advance plan to leave Illinois for Indiana
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The Chicago Bears are moving forward on a plan to build a new stadium in Hammond, Indiana.
Why it matters: This is the strongest signal yet that Chicago's NFL franchise could leave Illinois.
What they're saying: "We believe a world-class stadium project in Hammond will transform the region," team leaders said in a statement after the board of directors voted Thursday to advance the project.
- "It will bring Chicagoland together and deliver new opportunities to its residents and businesses."
Context: The Illinois legislature did not pass a proposed stadium tax incentive package in its spring session. The General Assembly will not meet again until November, unless Gov. JB Pritzker calls a special session.
- Indiana had already passed tax breaks to lure the Bears across the state border.
State of play: While Indiana lawmakers are signaling a victory, it's unclear if the Bears are officially committing to a move.
Between the lines: The Bears previously expressed similar enthusiasm for Arlington Heights, raising questions about whether Friday's statement makes Indiana the final destination or another negotiating tactic.
Zoom in: Illinois leaders stressed that negotiations remain ongoing.
- "Governor Pritzker has always been clear that he wants the Bears to stay in Illinois and still remains open to a sensible solution that protects taxpayers," spokesperson Matt Hill said in a statement.
- "Over the last several years, the Bears have stated their intentions in multiple jurisdictions," Chicago Mayor Brandon Johnson said in a statement. "Until we see shovels in the ground in Hammond, the City will continue to engage in discussions grounded in the interests of our residents."
- "Illinois remains open to ongoing efforts to secure the Bears," Illinois House Speaker Chris Welch said in a statement. "However, it'll take time to get it right."
Meanwhile, Indiana officials celebrated the vote.
- "Welcome to Indiana!" Gov. Mike Braun said in a statement. "An NFL franchise in Northwest Indiana will be an economic boost to the entire region like we haven't seen before."
- "The Bears join a long line of companies and residents choosing Indiana to invest, grow and pursue opportunity, and I look forward to many more making that choice," House Speaker Todd Huston said in a statement.
The intrigue: NFL teams often play outside their namesake cities. Playing in another state is far less common.
- The biggest example is MetLife Stadium in East Rutherford, New Jersey, where the New York Giants and Jets play.
- The Washington Commanders play in Landover, Maryland, but are planning a new stadium in D.C.
The bottom line: The Bears are signaling that Indiana is now the preferred path, though a final decision remains unresolved.