Iowa Lawmakers Propose Luring Chicago Bears to New Stadium

Seven state senators submit bill to modify economic incentives program to attract NFL franchise

Published on Feb. 11, 2026

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As the Chicago Bears continue to explore options for a new home, Iowa has entered the fray, with seven state senators submitting a bill that would modify the 'Major Economic Growth Attraction' program to 'include incentivizing the building of a professional sports stadium by a National Football League franchise in the state.'

Why it matters

The Bears' search for a new stadium has drawn interest from several states, including Indiana, as the team looks to potentially leave its longtime home in Illinois. Iowa's proposal represents another potential relocation option, though the distance from Chicago may make it a less viable choice.

The details

The bill, filed by state senator Kerry Gruenhagen, is intended to 'show a team in our neighboring state that we are ready for them if their home state doesn't want them.' While a move to Iowa would still keep the Bears in the greater Chicago area, cities like Davenport and Des Moines are significantly farther away from the city than the team's current home.

  • The bill was submitted by seven Iowa state senators on February 11, 2026.

The players

Kerry Gruenhagen

An Iowa state senator who filed the bill to modify the state's economic incentives program to attract an NFL franchise.

Chicago Bears

The NFL team that is exploring options for a new stadium, drawing interest from several states including Iowa.

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What they’re saying

“We are ready for them if their home state doesn't want them.”

— Kerry Gruenhagen, Iowa state senator (Front Office Sports)

What’s next

The Iowa state legislature will need to consider and vote on the bill in order for the state's incentives program to be modified to target an NFL franchise like the Chicago Bears.

The takeaway

Iowa's proposal to lure the Chicago Bears represents the latest effort by a state outside of Illinois to try and attract the NFL team, though the significant distance from Chicago may make it a less appealing option compared to potential moves to nearby states like Indiana.