Indiana approves plan to lure Bears away from Chicago

Guardian Sport

by Associated Press

February 19, 2026

AI-Generated Deep Dive Summary

The Chicago Bears are considering a potential move to Indiana following the approval of a plan to establish a new stadium in Hammond, near Wolf Lake. The Indiana House of Representatives Ways and Means Committee has passed a bill creating the Northwest Indiana Stadium Authority, which will oversee the financing, construction, and leasing of a state-of-the-art stadium. This marks a significant step forward in efforts to bring the NFL team to Indiana, where they have been based in Chicago since 1921. The proposal received unanimous support, with a 24-0 vote, demonstrating strong backing from local officials. The proposed location for the new stadium is a tract of land near Wolf Lake in Hammond, a city within the greater Chicago area but still within Indiana’s boundaries. The plan includes public funding and private investments to cover the costs of construction. While no official timeline has been set, the move could provide a much-needed economic boost to the region, creating jobs and attracting tourism. The potential relocation of the Bears is part of a broader strategy to bring professional sports to Indiana, which currently lacks an NFL team. The state has long been home to other major league teams, such as the Indianapolis Colts (NFL) and the Indiana Pacers (NBA), but bringing the Bears would further solidify its status as a sports hub. This move could also help revitalize Hammond and surrounding areas, fostering economic growth and community development. For sports fans, this development is significant because it could bring one of the NFL’s most storied franchises closer to them. However, the move is not guaranteed, as it requires approval from team ownership, league officials, and other stakeholders. The Bears have faced challenges in Chicago, including outdated infrastructure at Soldier Field and discussions about a potential new stadium in the city. Ultimately, this plan represents an ambitious effort to attract a major sports franchise to Indiana, with the goal of enhancing the state’s sports culture and boosting its economy. While there are many factors to consider, the approval of this plan marks a crucial milestone in the process. Sports enthusiasts will be watching closely to see if this vision becomes reality.

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Originally published on Guardian Sport on 2/19/2026