Chicago Bears chairman George H. McCaskey confirmed Thursday that the team will retain its name even if a new stadium is built across state lines in Indiana. "We will be the Chicago Bears whether we're in Arlington [Heights, Illinois] or whether we're in Hammond," McCaskey stated during his annual training camp address.

The team is currently focusing its efforts on a stadium site in Hammond, Indiana, citing a lack of legislative progress in Illinois regarding property tax certainty. Indiana has offered up to $1 billion in incentives and guaranteed tax assurance.

Bears president and CEO Kevin Warren affirmed the commitment to Indiana, noting minimal communication with Illinois legislators. While a timeline for a decision was not provided, Warren indicated progress is being made, with due diligence completed on potential sites in Hammond. He acknowledged fan concerns about moving the franchise out of state but expressed confidence that fans will adjust to a "world-class stadium experience."