Bears to update NFL on stadium search with Arlington and Hammond as options

The Chicago Bears are expected to provide an update on their stadium search to NFL owners at a league meeting in Orlando on Tuesday, with the team stating its only viable options remain Arlington Heights, Illinois, or Hammond, Indiana. A final decision is anticipated by late spring or early summer.

The update comes amid a public dispute between Illinois Governor J.B. Pritzker and Chicago Mayor Brandon Johnson over efforts to keep the team in the city. Governor Pritzker expressed frustration this week, stating the mayor has had three years but has presented no concrete plan for a Chicago stadium. He characterized the mayor's recent engagement as arriving late in the legislative process.

In response, the mayor's office defended its position, stating the city's proposal is the only one centered on public ownership with a funding mechanism that does not burden property taxpayers. The statement added that the city continues to advocate for a solution that keeps the Bears in Chicago.

The Bears have publicly stated for months that their focus is solely on the two suburban sites. The Arlington Heights plan hinges on state legislation, known as the "megaprojects" bill, which would provide...