Speaking to reporters in Atlanta following a meeting of team owners at an airport hotel, Goodell stated that the league wants to ensure all interested municipalities have an opportunity to present competitive proposals.
Legislative Delays in Illinois
The decision regarding the franchise’s long-term home was initially expected weeks ago. The Bears already own land in Arlington Heights, keeping that local option viable even as lawmakers debate legislative support.
Goodell downplayed his direct intervention in the legislative process, describing his talks with lawmakers as routine business. He noted that his involvement in stadium developments across the league is standard practice when communities, teams, and the NFL face major infrastructure decisions.
Weighing Arlington Heights Against Northwest Indiana
While the league continues discussions with Illinois officials, the franchise also holds a standing offer to build a stadium at a site in Hammond, Indiana. Bears chairman George McCaskey and team president Kevin Warren have publicly reiterated their focus on the Northwest Indiana project.
Despite those public statements and ongoing talks across state lines, no construction has begun at either location. With league leadership monitoring the legislative process in Illinois and evaluating proposals from both states, the final site selection remains unconfirmed.
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