Chicago Bears fans are grappling with the surprising news that their beloved team might soon call Indiana home. The buzz started when Illinois canceled a key bill hearing about the Bears' new stadium, while Indiana quickly moved forward, greenlighting construction plans in Hammond. This has sparked excitement from Indiana's governor and the Bears, but Illinois isn't ready to throw in the towel just yet.
Mark Grote from 104.3 The Score shared on the "Take The North" podcast that Illinois Governor JB Pritzker is highly motivated to keep the Bears in their home state. However, he's facing significant resistance from the Illinois House and Senate, who are focused on ensuring the deal is taxpayer-friendly.
The potential move to Indiana could hinge on financial considerations, particularly the tax burden of building the new stadium. In Indiana, the Bears are set to contribute $2 billion towards construction, with the state covering the rest.
Illinois, on the other hand, has been cautious about the financial implications, especially concerning ticket prices. The Bears have already announced a price hike for season tickets, which adds another layer to the negotiations.
It's important to note that nothing is set in stone with Indiana. There's still a chance for Illinois to strike a deal that keeps the Bears in-state. If not, even the team's headquarters at Halas Hall might make the move to Indiana.
This ongoing saga is far from over, and while it's been a rollercoaster for the Bears and Illinois, there's still room for a resolution. Until then, Bears fans might want to start mapping out their trips to Hammond.