The Chicago Bears are officially shifting their focus for a new home across state lines, zeroing in on a potential stadium site in Hammond, Indiana, according to a statement released by the team and reported by Ian Rapoport of NFL Network.
The announcement follows the abrupt cancellation of a key Illinois legislative hearing in Springfield on Thursday morning that was set to discuss tax incentives for the team's proposed site in Arlington Heights. Per @RapSheet, the Bears are now focusing on the Wolf Lake area in Northwest Indiana as Indiana lawmakers prepare to vote on a proposal to lure the franchise.
While the Bears have stopped short of a full commitment to relocate, the statement marks the most significant step toward the team leaving Illinois in its century-long history. Bears CEO Kevin Warren has been vocal regarding the need for property tax certainty and infrastructure support, which have stalled in the Illinois legislature. Meanwhile, the Indiana House Ways and Means Committee is meeting today to review financial language that would pave the way for the Hammond site.
The Bears have played at Soldier Field in Chicago since 1971, but the franchise has spent the last several years exploring options for a modern, team-owned facility. If the Indiana deal progresses, it would represent a massive shift for one of the NFL's charter franchises.
This is a developing story. Check back for updates.
Sources & Original Reporting