Jun 21, 2026, 10:30 AM CUT

Bears Indiana move faces challenge as Chicago suburb Mayor takes major step

November 28, 2025, Philadelphia, Pa, U.S.A.: Chicago Bears quarterback CALEB WILLIAMS 18 competes during a week 13 game between the Philadelphia Eagles and the Chicago Bears Friday, Nov. 28, 2025 at Lincoln Financial Field in Philadelphia, PA. Philadelphia U.S.A. - ZUMAs124 20251128_fap_s124_059 Copyright: xSaquanxStimpsonx

The Chicago Bears had previously explored plans in Arlington Heights, but discussions eventually turned towards a potential move to Indiana. However, the organization may have other alternatives to consider.

A new proposed site lies on the outskirts, in suburban Illinois, about 15 miles away from the city. The mayor of the suburb of McCook, Terrence Carr, has come up with a plan that would allow the Bears to build an 80,000-seat stadium in Illinois.

"We're going to Lake Forest this week to hand deliver two letters," Mayor Terrence Carr said, per Steve Metsch of the Desplaines Valley News.

NFL, American Football Herren, USA Chicago Bears at Philadelphia Eagles Nov 28, 2025 Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, USA Chicago Bears safety Kevin Byard III 31 celebrates after an interception against the Philadelphia Eagles with teammates during the third quarter of the game at Lincoln Financial Field. Philadelphia Lincoln Financial Field Pennsylvania USA, EDITORIAL USE ONLY PUBLICATIONxINxGERxSUIxAUTxONLY Copyright: xBillxStreicherx 20251128_hlf_sq4_085

According to the proposal by Carr, the Bears or the village would buy an area of 150 acres of filled in quarry land, currently owned by Vulcan Materials Company.

The Bears would then build a domed 80,000-seat stadium, which the team would give to the village. In return, the team would have to pay a rent of $1 a year. This would make the stadium exempt from property taxes due to its being a publicly owned stadium.

However, there are still a few issues. The land is much smaller compared to the 326-acre Arlington Heights, a problem if the organization wants to develop more than a stadium. It would also cost $160 million, close to what the Bears paid for the Arlington Heights property.

The infrastructure around the proposed land is also another cause for worry, raising concerns about hotels and local road access. However, the stadium would be in proximity to the Midway International Airport and major highways.

But most importantly, building a stadium here would ensure that the Bears do not relocate to Hammond, Indiana, a move Bears fans are vehemently against. And it's not just fans who are frustrated with the Bears’ stadium situation.

NFL Hall of Famer voices his frustrations with the Bears’ situation

The Bears’ Board of Governors’ decision to move away from Chicago, where they’ve been since 1971, has displeased many, including NFL Hall of Famer Brian Urlacher.

The 2018 NFL Hall of Fame inductee and legendary linebacker opened up to FOX’s Jackson Thompson about the Bears’ situation.

“I just don’t see how as a state legislator, governor, city, mayor, how you can let this team leave the state of Illinois or even be a topic of discussion,” said Urlacher. “You do what you have to do to keep the Bears here, we have the best fans in the world. I’d do what I have to do to keep them in the state of Illinois.”

While it is not yet confirmed as to whether the Bears will move away from Illinois, it is sure that both fans and former players would not be happy with the move.

It will be interesting to see where the Chicago Bears finally end up. What are your thoughts on the situation? Let us know in the comments!

Written by

Dhruv Vishnu Nair

Edited by

Arundhoti Palit