What Happened to Chicago Bears (NFL Team)?
The Chicago Bears have experienced a significant resurgence in recent years, culminating in an NFC North title and a playoff victory in 2025 under new head coach Ben Johnson and rookie quarterback Caleb Williams. The team is currently navigating a complex stadium situation, exploring options in both Illinois and Indiana, with a strong focus on Hammond, Indiana, as of August 2026.
Quick Answer
The Chicago Bears have seen a dramatic turnaround, winning the NFC North in 2025 and securing their first playoff victory in over a decade, largely attributed to the arrival of head coach Ben Johnson and quarterback Caleb Williams. As of August 2026, the team is actively pursuing a new stadium, with their primary focus shifting to sites in Hammond, Indiana, due to stalled negotiations in Illinois, though they have affirmed they will remain the 'Chicago Bears' regardless of location.
📊Key Facts
📅Complete Timeline6 events
Kevin Warren Named President and CEO
Kevin Warren, with a strong background in stadium development, was appointed President and Chief Executive Officer of the Chicago Bears.
Arlington Heights Land Purchase Finalized
The Bears finalized the purchase of the 326-acre former Arlington International Racecourse site in Arlington Heights for $197.2 million, initially planning a $5 billion domed stadium.
Key Free Agent Signings and Re-signings
The Bears were active in free agency, signing running back D'Andre Swift, tight end Gerald Everett, and safety Kevin Byard, while also re-signing cornerback Jaylon Johnson to a four-year, $76 million deal.
Justin Fields Traded to Steelers
Quarterback Justin Fields was traded to the Pittsburgh Steelers for a conditional 2025 sixth-round pick, clearing the way for a new era.
Caleb Williams Drafted First Overall
The Chicago Bears selected USC quarterback Caleb Williams as the first overall pick in the 2024 NFL Draft, signaling a new franchise quarterback.
Rome Odunze Drafted Ninth Overall
With their second first-round pick, the Bears drafted wide receiver Rome Odunze from Washington, providing a significant weapon for Caleb Williams.
Follow this story
Get an email when this timeline gets a major update.
🔍Deep Dive Analysis
The Chicago Bears, one of the NFL's oldest franchises, have undergone a significant transformation in the mid-2020s. After a challenging 2024 season where they finished 5-12 and last in the NFC North, leading to coaching changes including the dismissal of head coach Matt Eberflus, the team entered a new era. The 2024 season, however, was notable for the selection of USC quarterback Caleb Williams as the first overall pick in the NFL Draft, marking a pivotal moment for the franchise's future. Williams, despite the team's struggles, showed promise, setting franchise rookie records for passing yards, touchdowns, and rushing yards by a quarterback.
A major turning point occurred with the hiring of Ben Johnson as head coach on January 21, 2025. Johnson, previously the offensive coordinator for the Detroit Lions, quickly revitalized the team. In his inaugural season, 2025, he led the Bears to an 11-6 record, an NFC North Division title, and their first playoff victory since 2010, defeating the Green Bay Packers in the Wild Card round before falling to the Los Angeles Rams in the Divisional Round. This marked a remarkable jump from last place in 2024 to division champions in 2025.
The team's roster has also seen significant changes. In 2024, key free agent signings included running back D'Andre Swift, tight end Gerald Everett, and safety Kevin Byard, while they also re-signed cornerback Jaylon Johnson to a substantial deal. The 2024 draft brought in wide receiver Rome Odunze alongside Caleb Williams. The 2025 offseason saw further additions like center Drew Dalman and offensive guard Joe Thuney via trade, aimed at bolstering the offensive line around Williams. Heading into the 2026 season, General Manager Ryan Poles, now in his fifth season, and Coach Johnson have expressed high expectations, with Johnson aiming for a record-setting offense.
Off the field, the Chicago Bears have been embroiled in a prolonged search for a new stadium. After purchasing the former Arlington International Racecourse site in Arlington Heights in 2023 for $197.2 million, plans for a $5 billion domed stadium and entertainment complex stalled due to disagreements with Illinois authorities over financing, taxes, and infrastructure. This led the team to expand its search. As of August 2026, the Bears have shifted their primary focus to two sites in Hammond, Indiana, after Illinois state leadership indicated that the Arlington Heights project would not be a priority in 2026. Team President Kevin Warren and Chairman George McCaskey have emphasized the need for a world-class venue and are prepared to invest around $2 billion of their own money. Despite the potential relocation across state lines, Chairman George McCaskey has reassured fans that the team will retain its historic 'Chicago Bears' name.
Virginia Halas McCaskey, the principal owner and daughter of founder George Halas, passed away in February 2025 at the age of 102, after overseeing the team since 1983. The team remains a majority-owned family enterprise, now led by her son, George McCaskey. Kevin Warren was named President and CEO in January 2023, bringing his experience in stadium development from the Minnesota Vikings to the Bears' ongoing project.
What If...?
Explore alternate histories. What if Chicago Bears (NFL Team) made different choices?