Updated
Updated · NBC Sports · Jun 2
Chicago Says It Leads Bears Stadium Talks With 1 Domed Plan as Rivals Lack Studies
Updated
Updated · NBC Sports · Jun 2

Chicago Says It Leads Bears Stadium Talks With 1 Domed Plan as Rivals Lack Studies

3 articles · Updated · NBC Sports · Jun 2
  • Brandon Johnson said Chicago is "further along" than Arlington Heights or Hammond in the Bears' search for a new domed stadium, arguing the city is already discussing agreement terms with the team.
  • Chicago's pitch centers on a publicly owned stadium and expanded green space, and Johnson said Springfield should now work with the Bears, the city and other stakeholders on a viable plan.
  • Johnson dismissed rival bids by saying Arlington Heights lacks a traffic study, Hammond lacks an environmental study, and neither alternative has agreement terms in place.
  • The comments come as the Bears are said to have narrowed their focus to Arlington Heights and Hammond, while Chicago insists it remains a live contender for the roofed venue.
With the Bears' 2026 decision imminent, is Chicago's stadium bid a political bluff or is there a secret deal in the works?
Will the Bears' final choice be swayed by Indiana's billion-dollar offer or deterred by the Hammond site's environmental risks?