Hammond Mayor Vows to Bring Chicago Bears to Indiana

The proposed stadium site is already considered Bears territory, says mayor.

Published on Feb. 25, 2026

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Hammond Mayor Thomas M. McDermott Jr. has expressed his city's eagerness to bring the Chicago Bears football team to Indiana, stating they will "do whatever it takes" to make it happen. The proposed stadium site in Hammond is already considered Bears territory, according to the mayor.

Why it matters

The potential move of the Bears from Chicago to Hammond, Indiana would be a major shift in the NFL landscape, as the team has been based in Chicago for nearly a century. This could have significant economic and cultural impacts on both cities.

The details

Mayor McDermott discussed the opportunity to bring the Bears to Indiana, noting that the proposed stadium site in Hammond is already considered Bears territory. This suggests the team may be seriously considering the move across state lines.

  • The announcement from Mayor McDermott was made on February 19, 2026.

The players

Thomas M. McDermott Jr.

The mayor of Hammond, Indiana who has expressed his city's eagerness to bring the Chicago Bears football team to Indiana.

Chicago Bears

The professional American football team that has been based in Chicago for nearly a century, but is now considering a move to Hammond, Indiana.

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What they’re saying

“We wish the Bears all the best on their stadium initiative.”

— Thomas M. McDermott Jr., Mayor of Hammond, Indiana (wn.com)

What’s next

The Bears organization has not yet confirmed or denied the potential move to Hammond, Indiana. Further negotiations and announcements are expected in the coming months.

The takeaway

The potential relocation of the iconic Chicago Bears franchise to Hammond, Indiana would be a seismic shift in the NFL, with significant implications for both cities' sports and economic landscapes.