The Chicago Bears have taken a major step toward relocating their home stadium to Indiana, a move that would mark the first time in the franchise’s 106-year history that it plays home games outside Illinois.

Following a meeting of the team’s board of directors on Thursday, June 4, the Bears announced plans to continue pursuing a stadium project in Northwest Indiana. In a statement released Friday, Bears Chairman George McCaskey said a site in Hammond remains under consideration, although a specific location has not yet been finalized.

The team has been evaluating land near Wolf Lake after Indiana lawmakers approved legislation earlier this year creating a stadium financing framework. The plan would allow a stadium authority to issue bonds supported by revenue from admissions, hotel stays, restaurant spending and toll-related taxes.

According to the Bears, the organization plans to invest $2 billion in the stadium project.

McCaskey said the project could serve as a catalyst for economic growth throughout Northwest Indiana and the South Side of Chicago.

The move follows months of uncertainty surrounding the Bears’ stadium search.

The Bears had sought legislation that would have reduced long-term property tax costs at the Arlington Heights site, but lawmakers failed to advance the proposal before the legislative session ended.

The Indiana proposal now appears to have emerged as the leading option.

Governor Mike Braun issued the following statement:

“Hoosiers, help me welcome the Chicago Bears to our great state!

“We look forward to building a partnership as strong as the ’85 Bears defense, creating opportunities and economic growth that will benefit our state and the Bears organization for decades to come. An NFL franchise in Northwest Indiana will be an economic boost to the entire region like we haven’t seen before. 

“Thank you to Speaker Huston, the legislature, and Mayor McDermott for their partnership. I also want to thank the entire Chicago Bears organization for their partnership and commitment in making this move a reality.

“Welcome to Indiana!”  – Governor Mike Braun

Statement from Chairman George H. McCaskey and President & CEO Kevin Warren: pic.twitter.com/U4lHzSV8Zv

— Chicago Bears (@ChicagoBears) June 5, 2026