Story perspectives

Goodell Says No Bears Stadium Decision Timeline Yet

8/28/2026

Summary

Story summary

NFL Commissioner Roger Goodell said there is no timetable for a Bears stadium decision after the August 26, 2026 meeting.
Goodell noted the Bears are evaluating stadium options in both Indiana and Illinois.
Indiana passed a stadium bill in February 2024.
Indiana pledged $1 billion toward a Bears stadium.
Illinois Governor J.B. Pritzker refused taxpayer funding while the Bears bought a 326-acre Arlington Heights site for $197 million in 2023.

History

Historical Context

In 1995 Governor Parris Glendening and the Maryland Stadium Authority pledged $200 million, Baltimore added $100 million, creating a $300 million fund that financed the $200 million public contribution to M&T Bank Stadium, which opened in 1998 after Art Modell announced the Ravens’ move on November 6, 1995. Today Commissioner Roger Goodell faces the Chicago Bears’ split between Indiana’s $1 billion pledge and Illinois Governor J.B. Pritzker’s refusal of state money.

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Story summary

NFL Commissioner Roger Goodell said there is no timetable for a Bears stadium decision after the August 26, 2026 meeting.
Goodell noted the Bears are evaluating stadium options in both Indiana and Illinois.
Indiana passed a stadium bill in February 2024.
Indiana pledged $1 billion toward a Bears stadium.
Illinois Governor J.B. Pritzker refused taxpayer funding while the Bears bought a 326-acre Arlington Heights site for $197 million in 2023.

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