Although the NFL has begun its transition to the 2026 NFL Draft, several storylines emerged from the annual league meetings, many centered on roster decisions and speculation.
The Chicago Bears, however, made headlines for a different reason. After nearly relocating to Indiana, the franchise received a more favorable offer from Illinois.
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Now, the organization must decide where to build its new stadium. The two primary options are the team-owned land in Arlington Heights, Illinois, or a proposed site in Hammond, Indiana.
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The biggest question has been when the Bears will make their decision. We now have a clearer timeline for this major project.
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Jan 18, 2026; Chicago, IL, USA; Chicago Bears tight end Cole Kmet (85) celebrates with wide receiver Olamide Zaccheaus (14) after catching a fourteen-yard touchdown pass against the Los Angeles Rams with eighteen seconds remaining in the fourth quarter of an NFC Divisional Round game at Soldier Field. Mandatory Credit: David Banks-Imagn Images
Team president and CEO Kevin Warren told ESPN that the decision will come sooner rather than later.
“The target is to make sure that we have a decision made by springtime here soon. Late spring, early summer would be that from a target,” Warren said.
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That timeline suggests the Bears will inform their prospective host location between mid-May and early June. Warren emphasized that both proposals position the franchise for long-term success.
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The Bears currently play in the NFL’s oldest stadium. Soldier Field, originally built in the 1920s, has served as the team’s home since the 1970s.
Jan 18, 2026; Chicago, IL, USA; Chicago Bears fans during an NFC Divisional Round game at Soldier Field. Mandatory Credit: Matt Marton-Imagn Images
As it stands, the stadium seats just over 60,000 fans and has undergone several renovations during the team’s tenure. However, the modern NFL continues to trend toward enclosed, dome-style stadiums—largely driven by ownership priorities.
Domed venues offer more than just football. They can host major global events such as the FIFA World Cup, Monster Jam, and a wide range of other large-scale attractions.
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Beyond versatility, domes also eliminate one key competitive factor: weather. Historically, the Bears have benefited from harsh conditions off Lake Michigan.
Jan 18, 2026; Chicago, IL, USA; Chicago Bears quarterback Caleb Williams (18) runs onto the field during player introductions before an NFC Divisional Round game against the Los Angeles Rams at Soldier Field. Mandatory Credit: David Banks-Imagn Images
However, if ownership and the host city hope to attract the NFL’s biggest event, a dome is almost essential in that region. The Super Bowl typically takes place in warm-weather cities or in domed stadiums to avoid cold February conditions.
The Bears now sit in a strong position—not only to choose their next home, but also to shape their future as a destination for major events. The final question remains: Will the team stay in Illinois or make the move to their neighboring state?
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