The Chicago Bears will maintain their historic name even if the franchise relocates from Soldier Field, according to team chairman George McCaskey. The team is actively pursuing a move to Hammond, Indiana, a decision that has been advanced by the team's board of directors.
McCaskey confirmed Thursday that the team would not be renamed the 'Hammond Bears' or the 'Indiana Bears' should the relocation to the Hoosier State proceed. "No. We will be the Chicago Bears whether we're in Arlington or whether we're in Hammond," McCaskey told reporters.
The team's focus is currently on the Hammond site, with efforts, time, and resources devoted to advancing development there. The Bears' board of directors voted in June to advance the development of a stadium in Indiana. Since then, McCaskey described communication with Illinois legislators regarding potential stadium funding or tax incentives as "minimal."
Illinois lawmakers have not passed legislation to solidify the team's tax situation, while Indiana has offered the Bears up to $1 billion in incentives and agreed to tax assurances for the move. Team CEO Kevin Warren stated that there has been no offer from the state of Illinois, reinforcing the focus on Indiana. "And our focus now is on Indiana," Warren said. "But right now our focus is on Hammond, Indiana, to make sure that we bring that to life."
The Bears have been exploring potential sites in Hammond, vetting a second area after reviewing one. The franchise has spent most of its 107-year history playing home games within Illinois, primarily at Soldier Field. The current lease at Soldier Field is set to expire in 2033.
