Bears Eyeing Move to Hammond, Indiana

Local lawmaker hopes fans will give northwest Indiana a chance if the team relocates.

Mar. 16, 2026 at 10:22am

Got story updates? Submit your updates here. ›

The Chicago Bears are considering moving their team to Hammond, Indiana, a city just across the border from Chicago. While some Bears fans are skeptical of the potential relocation, East Chicago Representative Earl Harris Jr. is hopeful that the move could transform the northwest Indiana region similar to how the Indianapolis Colts' arrival impacted Indianapolis.

Why it matters

The Bears' move to Hammond would be a major economic and civic boost for the region, but the team's loyal fanbase in Chicago may be hesitant to embrace a new home location across state lines.

The details

The Bears have been in discussions with Hammond officials about potentially building a new stadium and training facilities in the city, which is located just 25 miles from downtown Chicago. While some Bears fans have expressed skepticism about the team leaving their longtime home, Rep. Harris believes the move could have a similar transformative effect on the northwest Indiana area as the Colts' arrival did for Indianapolis.

  • The Bears have been in talks with Hammond officials about a potential relocation since early 2026.

The players

Chicago Bears

A professional American football team and member of the National Football League (NFL).

Hammond, Indiana

A city in northwest Indiana, located just across the border from Chicago.

Earl Harris Jr.

A state representative from East Chicago, Indiana who is hopeful about the potential Bears relocation to the region.

Got photos? Submit your photos here. ›

What they’re saying

“It's kind of like, I'll believe it when I see it.”

— Earl Harris Jr., State Representative, East Chicago

What’s next

Hammond officials and the Bears organization are expected to continue discussions about a potential relocation deal in the coming months.

The takeaway

The Bears' potential move to Hammond, Indiana could be a major boost for the northwest Indiana region, but the team's loyal Chicago fanbase may be hesitant to embrace a new home location across state lines.