Chicago Bears

Team Information

Franchise History

The Chicago Bears are one of the NFL’s original franchises and one of the most storied organizations in professional sports. Founded in 1919 as the Decatur Staleys, the team joined the American Professional Football Association (predecessor to the NFL) in 1920. Player-coach George Halas moved the team to Chicago in 1921, and the franchise was renamed the Bears in 1922.

The Halas Legacy

George Halas, known as “Papa Bear,” was the heart and soul of the franchise for over 60 years. He served as player, coach, and owner, establishing the foundation for one of football’s most successful organizations. Halas won six NFL championships as head coach and built the Bears into an iconic franchise.

Current Status

The Bears compete in the NFC North division alongside the Green Bay Packers, Detroit Lions, and Minnesota Vikings. The team plays its home games at Soldier Field, located on Chicago’s lakefront.

Ownership

Management

• General Manager: Ryan Poles
• Head Coach: Matt Eberflus (2022-Present)
• Team President: Kevin Warren

Historical Significance

The Bears hold several distinctions in NFL history: - One of two charter members still in existence (along with Arizona Cardinals) - Most wins in NFL history (750+ through 2023) - Most retired jersey numbers in NFL history (14) - 30+ Hall of Fame inductees - Record 73-0 victory in 1940 NFL Championship (largest margin in NFL history)

Team Identity

The Bears are known for their physical, defensive brand of football historically, though recent decades have seen various offensive philosophies. The team plays in one of the NFL’s most iconic venues and represents one of America’s great cities.

The franchise has undergone significant changes in recent years, including efforts to modernize operations, improve the stadium experience, and build a competitive roster through the NFL Draft and free agency.

Chicago Bears History

The Decatur Staleys Era (1919-1921)

Founding

The franchise was founded in 1919 in Decatur, Illinois, by the A.E. Staley Manufacturing Company as a company team. George Halas was hired as player-coach, and the team played its first season in 1919 against local Midwestern opponents.

Joining the NFL

In 1920, the Staleys became a charter member of the American Professional Football Association, which became the National Football League in 1922. The team won the APFA championship in 1921 with a 9-1-1 record, though there was some controversy over the title.

The Early Chicago Bears Era (1921-1940)

Moving to Chicago

George Halas purchased the team from A.E. Staley in 1921 and moved it to Chicago, where it played at Cubs Park (later Wrigley Field). The team was renamed the Chicago Bears in 1922, reflecting Halas’ intention to play at the same stadium as the Chicago Cubs baseball team (hence “Bears”).

The 1930s Dynasty

The Bears became one of the NFL’s dominant teams in the 1930s: - 1932: Won NFL Championship (first official championship game) - 1933: Won NFL Championship - 1940: Record 73-0 victory over Washington in NFL Championship - 1941: Won NFL Championship - 1943: Won NFL Championship - 1946: Won NFL Championship

The T-formation offense, introduced by Halas and coach Clark Shaughnessy, revolutionized professional football. The 1940 championship game, a 73-0 demolition of the Washington Redskins, remains the most lopsided game in NFL history.

The Mid-Century Years (1950-1982)

The 1963 Championship

After a period of relative decline, the Bears won the 1963 NFL Championship under coach George Halas, defeating the New York Giants 14-10. This would be Halas’ final championship as head coach and the franchise’s last championship for 22 years.

The Dick Butkus Era (1965-1973)

Linebacker Dick Butkus, drafted in 1965, became the face of the franchise and one of the most feared defensive players in NFL history. Despite Butkus’ dominance, the Bears struggled to find consistent success during this era.

The Walter Payton Era (1975-1987)

Running back Walter Payton, drafted in 1975, became the franchise’s all-time leading rusher and one of the most beloved players in Chicago sports history. Payton’s excellence provided hope during a largely unsuccessful period for the team.

The Mike Ditka Era (1982-1992)

The 1985 Super Bowl Champions

The 1985 Chicago Bears are widely regarded as one of the greatest teams in NFL history. Under head coach Mike Ditka and defensive coordinator Buddy Ryan, the team combined a dominant defense with an entertaining offense.

The Defense: - Allowed just 198 points in the regular season (12.4 per game) - Recorded 64 sacks - Featured Hall of Famers Mike Singletary, Richard Dent, and Dan Hampton - Known as the “46 Defense” after safety Doug Plank

The Offense: - Walter Payton in his final dominant years - Jim McMahon at quarterback - Willie Gault at wide receiver - The “Super Bowl Shuffle” music video

1985 Playoff Run: - Divisional Round: Defeated New York Giants 21-0 - NFC Championship: Defeated Los Angeles Rams 24-0 (shutout in championship game) - Super Bowl XX: Defeated New England Patriots 46-10 (January 26, 1986)

The Super Bowl XX victory remains the franchise’s only Super Bowl championship and the pinnacle of Bears football in the modern era.

Post-Super Bowl Decline

Following the championship, the Bears remained competitive but could not replicate their success: - 1986: Lost Divisional Round - 1987: Lost Divisional Round (strike-shortened season) - 1988: Lost NFC Championship to San Francisco - 1991: Mike Ditka fired after 11-5 season with playoff loss

The 1990s: Searching for Stability (1992-1999)

Coaching Carousel

The Bears employed multiple head coaches during the 1990s: - Mike Ditka: Fired 1992 - Dave Wannstedt: 1992-1998 - Dick Jauron: 1999-2003

The team made the playoffs in 1994 under Wannstedt, losing in the Divisional Round, but generally struggled to find consistency.

The Lovie Smith Era (2004-2012)

Building a Contender

Lovie Smith brought defensive expertise and a clear vision to the Bears. The team reached the playoffs three times during his tenure.

Super Bowl XLI (2006 Season)

The 2006 Bears, led by quarterback Rex Grossman and linebacker Brian Urlacher, won the NFC Championship and advanced to Super Bowl XLI.

Playoff Run: - Divisional Round: Defeated Seattle Seahawks 27-24 (overtime) - NFC Championship: Defeated New Orleans Saints 39-14 in Chicago - Super Bowl XLI: Lost to Indianapolis Colts 29-17 (February 4, 2007)

The Bears led early in Super Bowl XLI when Devin Hester returned the opening kickoff for a touchdown, but Indianapolis quarterback Peyton Manning led the Colts to victory.

Post-Super Bowl

The Bears made the playoffs in 2010 under Smith but were eliminated by Green Bay. Smith was fired after the 2012 season despite a 10-6 record, as the team missed the playoffs.

The Modern Era (2013-Present)

Coaching Changes

• Marc Trestman: 2013-2014 (fired after two seasons)
• John Fox: 2015-2017 (fired after three losing seasons)
• Matt Nagy: 2018-2021 (won Coach of the Year in 2018, fired after 2021)
• Matt Eberflus: 2022-Present

Recent Struggles

The Bears have struggled to find consistent success in recent decades: - Playoff droughts spanning multiple seasons - Quarterback instability - Defensive decline after years of dominance - Stadium and facility issues

The Justin Fields Era (2021-2023)

The Bears drafted quarterback Justin Fields 11th overall in the 2021 NFL Draft. Fields showed flashes of brilliance, including a record-breaking rushing season for a quarterback in 2022, but the team struggled to build around him. Fields was traded to Pittsburgh in 2024.

Caleb Williams Era (2024-Present)

The Bears selected USC quarterback Caleb Williams with the first overall pick in the 2024 NFL Draft, marking a new chapter in the franchise’s ongoing search for a franchise quarterback.

Franchise Timeline

Historical Significance

The Bears are one of the NFL’s foundational franchises: - Charter member of the NFL - More wins than any other franchise - Most Hall of Fame inductees of any team - Record 14 retired jersey numbers - Longest continuous operation in one city (Chicago since 1921)

Chicago Bears Championships

NFL Championships (Pre-Super Bowl Era)

The Chicago Bears won 8 NFL Championships prior to the Super Bowl era (1966-present):

1921 NFL Championship

Record: 9-1-1
Coach: George Halas
The Bears (then Decatur Staleys) won the American Professional Football Association championship in their first season in the league. The championship was based on winning percentage, and the Staleys finished with the best record.

1932 NFL Championship

Record: 7-1-6
Coach: Ralph Jones
Championship Game: Bears 9, Portsmouth Spartans 0 (December 18, 1932)

This was the first NFL Championship Game played indoors, moved inside Chicago Stadium due to blizzard conditions. The Bears defeated the Portsmouth Spartans (who became the Detroit Lions the following year) in the first-ever scheduled playoff game in NFL history.

1933 NFL Championship

Record: 10-2-1
Coach: George Halas
Championship Game: Bears 23, New York Giants 21 (December 17, 1933)

The Bears defeated the Giants in a thriller at Wrigley Field. The game was notable for being the first NFL Championship Game played under standardized rules.

1940 NFL Championship

Record: 8-3
Coach: George Halas
Championship Game: Bears 73, Washington Redskins 0 (December 8, 1940)

The most lopsided game in NFL history. The Bears introduced the T-formation offense and completely overwhelmed the Redskins. The 73-0 score remains the largest margin of victory in NFL history, regular season or playoffs.

Key Statistics: - Bears rushing yards: 381 - Redskins total yards: 128 - Bears first downs: 23 - Redskins first downs: 8

1941 NFL Championship

Record: 10-1
Coach: George Halas (with co-coaches Hunk Anderson and Luke Johnsos after Halas entered military service)
Championship Game: Bears 37, New York Giants 9 (December 21, 1941)

The Bears repeated as champions, dominating the Giants at Wrigley Field. The game was played just two weeks after the Pearl Harbor attack, and proceeds went to the war effort.

1943 NFL Championship

Record: 8-1-1
Coach: Hunk Anderson and Luke Johnsos
Championship Game: Bears 41, Washington Redskins 21 (December 26, 1943)

Quarterback Sid Luckman threw for 433 yards and 5 touchdowns, setting championship game records that stood for decades. The Bears defeated the Redskins for their third championship of the 1940s.

1946 NFL Championship

Record: 8-2-1
Coach: George Halas (returned from military service)
Championship Game: Bears 24, New York Giants 14 (December 15, 1946)

Halas returned from World War II service to coach the Bears to their final championship of the 1940s. The game at the Polo Grounds drew the first televised championship audience.

1963 NFL Championship

Record: 11-1-2
Coach: George Halas
Championship Game: Bears 14, New York Giants 10 (December 29, 1963)

Halas’ final championship as head coach. The Bears’ defense held the Giants’ offense in check at frigid Wrigley Field. This was the franchise’s last championship for 22 years.

Super Bowl Championships

Super Bowl XX (1985 Season)

Date: January 26, 1986
Location: Louisiana Superdome, New Orleans, Louisiana
Opponent: New England Patriots
Result: Win, 46-10
Super Bowl MVP: Richard Dent (Defensive End)

The 1985 Chicago Bears are widely considered one of the greatest teams in NFL history. The team went 15-1 in the regular season and dominated the playoffs.

Playoff Journey: - Divisional Round: Bears 21, New York Giants 0 (shutout at home) - NFC Championship: Bears 24, Los Angeles Rams 0 (shutout in championship game) - Super Bowl XX: Bears 46, New England Patriots 10

Key Statistics: - Regular season points allowed: 198 (12.4 per game) - Regular season sacks: 64 - Playoff points allowed: 10 (3.3 per game) - Super Bowl first downs: 23 (Patriots had 4)

Notable Performances: - Jim McMahon: 12-20, 256 yards, 0 TD, 0 INT; 14 rushes, 14 yards, 2 rushing TDs - Walter Payton: 22 carries, 61 yards - Matt Suhey: 11 carries, 52 yards, 1 TD - Reggie Phillips: 28-yard interception return for touchdown - Kevin Butler: 3 field goals, 4 extra points

The Bears’ defense, coordinated by Buddy Ryan, was the star of Super Bowl XX. Richard Dent was named MVP after recording 1.5 sacks and forcing two fumbles.

Super Bowl Appearances

Super Bowl XLI (2006 Season)

Date: February 4, 2007
Location: Dolphin Stadium, Miami Gardens, Florida
Opponent: Indianapolis Colts
Result: Loss, 29-17
Super Bowl MVP: Peyton Manning (Colts Quarterback)

The Bears returned to the Super Bowl 21 years after their championship, winning the NFC under head coach Lovie Smith.

Playoff Journey: - Divisional Round: Bears 27, Seattle Seahawks 24 (overtime) - NFC Championship: Bears 39, New Orleans Saints 14 - Super Bowl XLI: Bears 17, Indianapolis Colts 29

Key Game Details: Devin Hester opened the game with a 92-yard kickoff return for a touchdown, the first time a Super Bowl began with a kickoff return touchdown. However, quarterback Rex Grossman struggled against the Colts’ defense, throwing two interceptions including a pick-six.

Notable Performances: - Devin Hester: 92-yard kickoff return touchdown - Thomas Jones: 15 carries, 112 yards - Muhsin Muhammad: 4 receptions, 42 yards, 1 TD

Conference Championships

NFC Championship Games

The Bears have won 4 NFC Championship Games:

1985 Season: Bears 24, Los Angeles Rams 0 (January 12, 1986) - The defense shut out the Rams at Soldier Field - Walter Payton: 12 carries, 32 yards - Jim McMahon: 2 touchdown passes

2006 Season: Bears 39, New Orleans Saints 14 (January 21, 2007) - Played at Soldier Field in freezing temperatures - Thomas Jones: 123 rushing yards - Bears defense forced 4 turnovers

NFL Championship Games (Pre-1970)

The Bears have appeared in 8 NFL Championship Games, winning 6:

Division Championships

The Bears have won 21 division championships:

Notable Division Championships

1985 NFC Central: 15-1 record (best in franchise history) 2006 NFC North: 13-3 record, first division title since 1990 2010 NFC North: 11-5 record, lost NFC Championship to Green Bay 2018 NFC North: 12-4 record, Nagy’s first season

Playoff History

The Bears have qualified for the playoffs 28 times in franchise history.

Playoff Record by Era

Recent Playoff Appearances

Individual Awards During Championship Seasons

1985 Super Bowl Season

• Coach of the Year: Mike Ditka
• Defensive Player of the Year: Mike Singletary
• Defensive Rookie of the Year: William Perry

2006 Super Bowl Season

• Coach of the Year: Lovie Smith
• Defensive Player of the Year: Brian Urlacher (2005, close to winning in 2006)
• Special Teams Player of the Year: Devin Hester

2018 Division Championship

• Coach of the Year: Matt Nagy
• Defensive Player of the Year: Khalil Mack

Championship Legacy

The Bears’ nine championships (8 NFL, 1 Super Bowl) rank among the most in professional football history: - Tied with Green Bay Packers for most NFL championships (13 each, including Super Bowls) - One of only three franchises with 9+ championships (Green Bay, Chicago, New England)

The 1985 Super Bowl championship team remains the standard by which all Bears teams are measured, and the 1940 73-0 victory remains one of the most iconic performances in sports history.

Chicago Bears Team Records

Single Season Records

Best Regular Season Records

Worst Regular Season Records

Most Points Scored (Single Season)

Fewest Points Allowed (Single Season)

Point Differential (Single Season)

All-Time Franchise Records

Overall Record (1920-Present)

• Total Games: 1,450+ (through 2023)
• Overall Record: 783-613-42 (.560 winning percentage)
• Playoff Record: 17-20 (.459)
• NFL Championships: 8
• Super Bowl Championships: 1
• Conference Championships: 4
• Division Championships: 21

Records by Decade

Individual Single-Season Records

Passing Records

Passing Yards: | Rank | Player | Season | Yards | |------|--------|--------|-------| | 1 | Erik Kramer | 1995 | 3,838 | | 2 | Jay Cutler | 2014 | 3,812 | | 3 | Josh McCown | 2013 | 1,829 | | 4 | Mitchell Trubisky | 2018 | 3,223 | | 5 | Jim Harbaugh | 1991 | 3,121 |

Passing Touchdowns: | Rank | Player | Season | Touchdowns | |------|--------|--------|------------| | 1 | Erik Kramer | 1995 | 29 | | 2 | Sid Luckman | 1943 | 28 | | 3 | Mitchell Trubisky | 2018 | 24 | | 4 | Jay Cutler | 2009 | 27 | | 5 | Jim McMahon | 1985 | 15 |

Rushing Records

Rushing Yards: | Rank | Player | Season | Yards | |------|--------|--------|-------| | 1 | Walter Payton | 1977 | 1,852 | | 2 | Walter Payton | 1984 | 1,684 | | 3 | Walter Payton | 1983 | 1,421 | | 4 | Neal Anderson | 1989 | 1,275 | | 5 | Jordan Howard | 2016 | 1,313 |

Rushing Touchdowns: | Rank | Player | Season | Touchdowns | |------|--------|--------|------------| | 1 | Gale Sayers | 1965 | 22 | | 2 | Walter Payton | 1977 | 14 | | 3 | Walter Payton | 1979 | 14 | | 4 | Walter Payton | 1985 | 9 | | 5 | Neal Anderson | 1989 | 11 |

Receiving Records

Receptions: | Rank | Player | Season | Receptions | |------|--------|--------|------------| | 1 | Brandon Marshall | 2012 | 118 | | 2 | Brandon Marshall | 2013 | 100 | | 3 | Matt Forte | 2014 | 102 | | 4 | Alshon Jeffery | 2013 | 89 | | 5 | Marty Booker | 2001 | 97 |

Receiving Yards: | Rank | Player | Season | Yards | |------|--------|--------|-------| | 1 | Brandon Marshall | 2012 | 1,508 | | 2 | Brandon Marshall | 2013 | 1,295 | | 3 | Alshon Jeffery | 2013 | 1,421 | | 4 | Marcus Robinson | 1999 | 1,400 | | 5 | Jeff Graham | 1995 | 1,301 |

Receiving Touchdowns: | Rank | Player | Season | Touchdowns | |------|--------|--------|------------| | 1 | Ken Kavanaugh | 1947 | 13 | | 2 | Dick Gordon | 1970 | 13 | | 3 | Brandon Marshall | 2013 | 12 | | 4 | Alshon Jeffery | 2013 | 7 | | 5 | Marty Booker | 2001 | 8 |

Defensive Records

Sacks (Since 1982): | Rank | Player | Season | Sacks | |------|--------|--------|-------| | 1 | Richard Dent | 1984 | 17.5 | | 2 | Richard Dent | 1985 | 17.0 | | 3 | Aldon Smith | 2011 | 14.5 | | 4 | Khalil Mack | 2018 | 12.5 | | 5 | Dan Hampton | 1979 | 11.0 |

Interceptions: | Rank | Player | Season | Interceptions | |------|--------|--------|---------------| | 1 | Mark Carrier | 1990 | 10 | | 2 | Eddie Jackson | 2018 | 6 | | 3 | Rosey Taylor | 1963 | 9 | | 4 | Gary Fencik | 1980 | 6 | | 5 | Mike Brown | 2001 | 5 |

Tackles: | Rank | Player | Season | Tackles | |------|--------|--------|---------| | 1 | Brian Urlacher | 2004 | 154 | | 2 | Brian Urlacher | 2002 | 147 | | 3 | Dick Butkus | 1969 | 136 | | 4 | Lance Briggs | 2005 | 152 | | 5 | Mike Singletary | 1986 | 147 |

All-Time Career Records

Career Passing Leaders

Career Rushing Leaders

Career Receiving Leaders

Career Defensive Leaders

Sacks: | Rank | Player | Years | Sacks | |------|--------|-------|-------| | 1 | Richard Dent | 1983-1993, 1995 | 124.5 | | 2 | Dan Hampton | 1979-1990 | 82.0 | | 3 | Steve McMichael | 1981-1993 | 92.0 | | 4 | Julius Peppers | 2014-2016 | 31.0 | | 5 | Khalil Mack | 2018-2021 | 36.0 |

Interceptions: | Rank | Player | Years | Interceptions | |------|--------|-------|---------------| | 1 | Gary Fencik | 1976-1987 | 38 | | 2 | Richie Petitbon | 1959-1968 | 37 | | 3 | Roosevelt Taylor | 1961-1969 | 32 | | 4 | Mike Brown | 2000-2008 | 17 | | 5 | Dave Whitsell | 1958-1966 | 26 |

Special Teams Records

Kick Returns

Kick Return Touchdowns (Career): | Rank | Player | Years | TDs | |------|--------|-------|-----| | 1 | Devin Hester | 2006-2013 | 14 (NFL record) | | 2 | Gale Sayers | 1965-1971 | 6 | | 3 | Dennis Gentry | 1982-1992 | 2 |

Punting

Career Punting Average: | Rank | Player | Years | Average | |------|--------|-------|---------| | 1 | Bobby Joe Green | 1962-1973 | 43.0 | | 2 | Brad Maynard | 2001-2010 | 42.9 | | 3 | Todd Sauerbrun | 1995-1999 | 44.6 |

Streaks and Notable Feats

Winning Streaks

• Longest Winning Streak: 13 games (1934, 1941-1942)
• Longest Home Winning Streak: 22 games (1930-1932)
• Longest Road Winning Streak: 8 games (1941-1942)

Losing Streaks

• Longest Losing Streak: 9 games (1969, 2014, 2016)
• Longest Home Losing Streak: 6 games (2014, 2016)

Other Notable Streaks

• Consecutive Games Scored: 89 games (1983-1990)
• Consecutive Playoff Appearances: 3 (1984-1986, 1987-1988, 2005-2006)

Playoff Records

Individual Playoff Records

Rushing Yards (Single Playoff Run): | Rank | Player | Year | Yards | |------|--------|------|-------| | 1 | Walter Payton | 1985 | 164 | | 2 | Thomas Jones | 2006 | 209 | | 3 | Neal Anderson | 1988 | 146 |

Receiving Yards (Single Playoff Run): | Rank | Player | Year | Yards | |------|--------|------|-------| | 1 | Willie Gault | 1985 | 220 | | 2 | Dennis McKinnon | 1985 | 174 | | 3 | Desmond Clark | 2006 | 135 |

Records Against Rivals

vs. Green Bay Packers

• All-Time Record: Packers lead 103-95-6
• Playoffs: Packers lead 1-0
• Largest Margin: Bears 61, Packers 7 (1962)

vs. Detroit Lions

• All-Time Record: Bears lead 104-80-5
• Largest Margin: Bears 49, Lions 0 (1965)

vs. Minnesota Vikings

• All-Time Record: Bears lead 60-57-2
• Playoffs: Bears lead 1-0
• Largest Margin: Bears 52, Vikings 14 (1984)

Chicago Bears Legendary Players

Pro Football Hall of Famers

The Chicago Bears have the most players in the Pro Football Hall of Fame of any franchise, with over 30 inductees.

George Halas (1963)

Position: End/Head Coach/Owner
Years: 1920-1967 (intermittent as player/coach)

“Papa Bear” is the most important figure in Chicago Bears history and one of the founders of the NFL. As a player, he helped the Decatur Staleys win the 1921 championship. As a coach, he won 6 NFL championships (1933, 1940, 1941, 1943, 1946, 1963). His 324 coaching wins were an NFL record for decades.

Walter Payton (1993)

Position: Running Back
Years: 1975-1987

“Sweetness” is the greatest Bear of all time and one of the most beloved figures in Chicago sports history.

Career Stats: - Rushing Yards: 16,726 (Bears record, 2nd all-time in NFL when retired) - Rushing Touchdowns: 110 - Receptions: 492 - Receiving Yards: 4,538 - Total Touchdowns: 125

Payton was known for his durability (missing only one game in 13 seasons), versatility, and never-out-of-bounds running style. He won the 1977 NFL MVP award and was selected to 9 Pro Bowls.

Accolades: - NFL MVP (1977) - 9x Pro Bowl - 7x First-Team All-Pro - Walter Payton Man of the Year Award (named in his honor, 1977) - NFL 100th Anniversary All-Time Team

Payton’s number 34 is retired by the Bears.

Dick Butkus (1979)

Position: Linebacker
Years: 1965-1973

Butkus is widely regarded as one of the most feared and dominant defensive players in NFL history.

Career Stats: - Interceptions: 22 - Fumble Recoveries: 27 - Pro Bowls: 8

Though sacks were not an official statistic during his career, Butkus consistently terrorized opposing offenses. His intensity and physicality defined the middle linebacker position.

Accolades: - 8x Pro Bowl - 6x First-Team All-Pro - NFL Defensive Player of the Year (1969, 1970) - NFL 1960s All-Decade Team - NFL 75th Anniversary All-Time Team - NFL 100th Anniversary All-Time Team

Butkus’ number 51 is retired by the Bears.

Gale Sayers (1977)

Position: Running Back/Kick Returner
Years: 1965-1971

“The Kansas Comet” was one of the most electrifying players in NFL history, despite a career shortened by knee injuries.

Career Stats: - Rushing Yards: 4,956 - Rushing Touchdowns: 39 - Kick Return Touchdowns: 6 - All-Purpose Touchdowns: 22 (NFL record at retirement)

Sayers set an NFL record with 22 touchdowns as a rookie in 1965, including 6 touchdowns in a single game against San Francisco (December 12, 1965).

Accolades: - 5x First-Team All-Pro (first 5 seasons) - 4x Pro Bowl - NFL Rookie of the Year (1965) - NFL 1960s All-Decade Team - NFL 75th Anniversary All-Time Team - NFL 100th Anniversary All-Time Team

Sayers’ number 40 is retired by the Bears.

Mike Ditka (1988)

Position: Tight End/Head Coach
Years: 1961-1966 (player), 1982-1992 (coach)

The only person to win an NFL championship with the same team as a player (1963), assistant coach, and head coach (1985).

Career Stats (Player): - Receptions: 316 - Receiving Yards: 4,503 - Receiving Touchdowns: 34

Ditka revolutionized the tight end position, proving it could be a legitimate receiving threat.

Accolades: - 5x Pro Bowl - 2x First-Team All-Pro - NFL 1960s All-Decade Team - Super Bowl XX champion (as head coach)

Ditka’s number 89 is retired by the Bears.

Mike Singletary (1998)

Position: Linebacker
Years: 1981-1992

“Samurai Mike” was the heart of the legendary 1985 Bears defense.

Career Stats: - Interceptions: 7 - Fumble Recoveries: 12 - Sacks: 19 (unofficial)

Singletary was known for his intense eyes and leadership. He started 172 consecutive games and was the defensive leader of the Super Bowl XX champions.

Accolades: - 10x Pro Bowl - 8x First-Team All-Pro - 2x NFL Defensive Player of the Year (1985, 1988) - Super Bowl XX champion - NFL 1980s All-Decade Team - NFL 100th Anniversary All-Time Team

Singletary’s number 50 is retired by the Bears.

Richard Dent (2011)

Position: Defensive End
Years: 1983-1993, 1995

The Super Bowl XX MVP was one of the most productive pass rushers in franchise history.

Career Stats: - Sacks: 124.5 (franchise record) - Forced Fumbles: 38

Dent was named Super Bowl XX MVP after recording 1.5 sacks and forcing two fumbles.

Accolades: - 4x Pro Bowl - 1x First-Team All-Pro (1985) - Super Bowl XX MVP - NFL 1980s All-Decade Team

Dan Hampton (2002)

Position: Defensive Tackle/End
Years: 1979-1990

“Danimal” was a versatile defensive lineman who could play any position along the line.

Career Stats: - Sacks: 82.0 (official, plus unofficial sacks in early career)

Hampton started 157 games and was a key member of the Super Bowl XX defense.

Accolades: - 4x Pro Bowl - 1x First-Team All-Pro (1984) - Super Bowl XX champion - NFL 1980s All-Decade Team

Brian Urlacher (2018)

Position: Linebacker
Years: 2000-2012

Urlacher was the dominant defensive player of his era and the face of the Bears for a decade.

Career Stats: - Tackles: 1,353 - Sacks: 41.5 - Interceptions: 22 - Forced Fumbles: 11

Accolades: - 8x Pro Bowl - 4x First-Team All-Pro - NFL Defensive Rookie of the Year (2000) - NFL Defensive Player of the Year (2005) - NFL 2000s All-Decade Team

Urlacher’s number 54 has not been officially retired but has not been worn since his retirement.

Other Hall of Famers

Sid Luckman (1965)

Position: Quarterback
Years: 1939-1950

Luckman revolutionized quarterback play with the T-formation. His 28 touchdown passes in 1943 stood as a Bears record for decades.

Number 42 retired

Bronko Nagurski (1963)

Position: Fullback/Defensive Tackle
Years: 1930-1937, 1943

One of the most feared players of the 1930s, Nagurski was a force on both offense and defense.

Number 3 retired

Red Grange (1963)

Position: Halfback
Years: 1925, 1929-1934

“The Galloping Ghost” was one of football’s first superstars.

Number 77 retired

Bulldog Turner (1966)

Position: Center/Linebacker
Years: 1940-1952

A dominant two-way player who anchored the championship teams of the 1940s.

Number 66 retired

Bill Hewitt (1971)

Position: End
Years: 1932-1936

One of the last great two-way ends, known for his aggressive play.

Number 56 retired

George McAfee (1966)

Position: Halfback/Defensive Back
Years: 1940-1941, 1945-1950

“One-Play McAfee” was a dangerous return man and runner.

Number 5 retired

Bill George (1974)

Position: Linebacker
Years: 1952-1965

The first true middle linebacker in professional football, George invented the position.

Number 61 retired

Doug Atkins (1982)

Position: Defensive End
Years: 1955-1966

A physically dominant defensive end who terrorized quarterbacks.

Number 81 retired

Stan Jones (1991)

Position: Guard/Defensive Tackle
Years: 1954-1965

One of the first players to use weight training extensively, Jones was dominant on both lines.

Number 78 retired

Retired Numbers

The Bears have retired more numbers than any other NFL franchise (14):

Franchise Icons

Devin Hester (2006-2013)

Position: Wide Receiver/Kick Returner

Hester is widely considered the greatest return specialist in NFL history.

Career Stats (Bears): - Kick Return Touchdowns: 14 (NFL record) - Punt Return Touchdowns: 13 (NFL record) - Total Return Touchdowns: 20 (NFL record)

Hester opened Super Bowl XLI with a 92-yard kickoff return touchdown. His ability to change games with a single touch made him one of the most exciting players in Bears history.

Jim McMahon (1982-1988)

Position: Quarterback

The charismatic leader of the 1985 Super Bowl champions.

Career Stats (Bears): - Record as Starter: 46-15 - Passing Yards: 11,203 - Touchdowns: 67

William “Refrigerator” Perry (1985-1993)

Position: Defensive Tackle/Fullback

The 300+ pound rookie became a cultural phenomenon in 1985, even scoring a touchdown in the Super Bowl.

Brian Piccolo (1965-1969)

Position: Running Back

Though his career was brief and his statistics modest, Piccolo is a Bears legend due to his friendship with Gale Sayers (chronicled in “Brian’s Song”) and his battle with cancer. His number 41 is retired.

Jim Covert (1983-1990)

Position: Offensive Tackle

The anchor of the offensive line during the 1985 championship season.

Matt Forte (2008-2015)

Position: Running Back

One of the most productive running backs in franchise history and a model of consistency.

Career Stats: - Rushing Yards: 8,602 (3rd in franchise history) - Receptions: 487 - Total Touchdowns: 54

Lance Briggs (2003-2014)

Position: Linebacker

Seven-time Pro Bowl linebacker who formed a dominant duo with Brian Urlacher.

Charles Tillman (2003-2014)

Position: Cornerback

“Peanut” was known for his “Peanut Punch” forced fumbles and lockdown coverage.

Khalil Mack (2018-2022)

Position: Linebacker

Elite pass rusher who brought excitement to the defense in recent years.

Modern Stars

Justin Fields (2021-2023)

Position: Quarterback

Fields showed flashes of brilliance, setting the single-season rushing record for a quarterback in 2022 with 1,143 yards.

Roquan Smith (2018-2022)

Position: Linebacker

Elite linebacker who was named to multiple Pro Bowls before being traded to Baltimore.

Eddie Jackson (2017-Present)

Position: Safety

Ball-hawking safety who earned All-Pro honors in 2018.

Chicago Bears Rivalries

Primary Rivalries

Green Bay Packers

The Bears-Packers rivalry is the oldest in the NFL and one of the most storied rivalries in all of professional sports. The teams have played each other over 200 times since their first meeting in 1921.

Historical Significance: - First meeting: November 27, 1921 (0-20-0 loss for Bears/Staleys) - Oldest rivalry in the NFL (continuous since 1921) - 208 meetings (most in NFL history between two teams) - 22 NFL championships combined between the teams - Legendary coaches on both sides (Halas, Lombardi, Ditka, Holmgren)

Key Moments: - 1921: First meeting, Packers shut out Staleys 20-0 - 1930s-1940s: Bears dominated, winning multiple championships - 1960s: Packers’ dynasty under Vince Lombardi - 1985: Bears beat Packers twice en route to Super Bowl XX - 2010 NFC Championship: Packers defeated Bears 21-14 at Soldier Field to advance to Super Bowl XLV - 2011: Bears ended Packers’ 19-game winning streak against losing teams - 2018: Bears clinched NFC North with victory over Packers at Soldier Field

Series Record (Through 2023): - Overall: Packers lead 107-95-6 - Playoffs: Packers lead 1-0 (2010 NFC Championship) - Largest Bears Win: 61-7 (1962) - Largest Packers Win: 55-14 (2014)

The Trophy: The winner of the season series receives the George Halas Trophy (named after the Bears founder), though this tradition is not as formalized as some other NFL rivalries.

Cultural Impact: The rivalry divides Wisconsin and Illinois along fierce lines. Families are split, and the games consistently draw national television audiences. The rivalry embodies the Midwest’s blue-collar football tradition.

Divisional Rivalries

Detroit Lions

The Bears-Lions rivalry dates back to the Lions’ founding as the Portsmouth Spartans in 1930.

Historical Context: - The Bears and Spartans played in the first NFL playoff game (1932) - Lions moved to Detroit in 1934 - Thanksgiving Day games have been played between the teams since 1934 - Division rivals since the NFC Central was formed in 1967

Key Moments: - 1932 NFL Championship: Bears defeated Spartans 9-0 in first playoff game - 1965: Bears defeated Lions 61-7 (largest margin in series) - 1980: Lions defeated Bears in Chicago, preventing playoff berth - 2013: Snow Bowl - Lions defeated Bears in blizzard conditions - 2023: Lions swept Bears for first time since 2017

Series Record (Through 2023): - Overall: Bears lead 104-80-5 - Thanksgiving Record: Bears lead 20-17-2 - Longest Bears Streak: 10 games (1948-1953) - Longest Lions Streak: 6 games (2004-2006, 2019-2021)

Thanksgiving Tradition: The Bears have played the Lions on Thanksgiving more than any other matchup in NFL history, making it an integral part of both franchises’ identities.

Minnesota Vikings

The Bears-Vikings rivalry developed after the Vikings joined the NFL as an expansion team in 1961.

Key Moments: - 1970s: Vikings dominated the rivalry during their Super Bowl era - 1985: Bears defeated Vikings 27-9 at Minnesota during Super Bowl season - 1994: Bears upset Vikings in overtime playoff game - 2009: Brett Favre-led Vikings defeated Bears twice - 2017: Bears snapped Vikings’ 8-game winning streak - 2022: Bears swept Vikings despite Minnesota making playoffs

Series Record (Through 2023): - Overall: Bears lead 60-57-2 - Playoffs: Bears lead 1-0 (1994 Wild Card) - At Soldier Field: Bears lead 34-26-1 - At Minnesota: Vikings lead 31-26-1

The rivalry intensified when Brett Favre joined the Vikings after his Packers career, adding another layer of animosity from Bears fans.

Historical Rivalries

New York Giants

The Giants were the Bears’ primary rival in the pre-merger era, meeting in multiple NFL Championship Games.

Championship Meetings: - 1933: Bears 23, Giants 21 - 1934: Giants 30, Bears 13 (“Sneakers Game”) - 1941: Bears 37, Giants 9 - 1946: Bears 24, Giants 14 - 1956: Giants 47, Bears 7 - 1963: Bears 14, Giants 10

The Bears and Giants played for the NFL championship six times, with the Bears winning four. The “Sneakers Game” in 1934 saw the Giants change to basketball shoes at halftime on a frozen field and come back from a 13-3 deficit.

Washington Commanders (formerly Redskins)

The rivalry was defined by the 1940 NFL Championship Game, where the Bears defeated Washington 73-0, the most lopsided game in NFL history. The teams also met in championship games in 1937, 1942, and 1943.

Modern Competitive Rivalries

Seattle Seahawks

While not a traditional rivalry, the Seahawks have had significant matchups with the Bears: - 2006 Divisional Playoff: Bears defeated Seahawks 27-24 in overtime - 2012: Seahawks defeated Bears 23-17 in overtime (Seattle’s comeback began here) - 2018: Bears defeated Seahawks 24-17 in playoff game

Philadelphia Eagles

Recent competitive matchups have created tension: - 2016: Eagles defeated Bears 29-14 - 2017: Eagles defeated Bears 31-3 (en route to Super Bowl LII) - 2018: Bears defeated Eagles 31-3 - 2018 Wild Card: Eagles defeated Bears 16-15 (“Double Doink” game - Cody Parkey’s missed field goal)

The 2018 playoff game ended when Bears kicker Cody Parkey’s 43-yard field goal attempt hit both the upright and crossbar (the “double doink”) and bounced out, giving Philadelphia the victory.

Rivalry Statistics Summary

Divisional Records (Since 2002 Realignment)

All-Time Divisional Records (NFC North/Central)

*Tampa Bay was in the NFC Central from 1977-2001

Most Frequent Playoff Opponents

Rivalry Characteristics

The Halas-Lombardi Dynamic

George Halas and Vince Lombardi represented the rivalry’s peak, with two of football’s greatest coaches battling for supremacy in the 1960s. Their mutual respect and competitive fire defined the era.

The Ditka Era

Mike Ditka’s return to Chicago as head coach intensified all rivalries, particularly with Green Bay. Ditka’s 13-3 record against the Packers as head coach (including playoffs) remains a point of pride for Bears fans.

Recent Struggles

Since 2010, the Bears have struggled in rivalry games: - 8-game losing streak to Green Bay (2019-2023) - Inconsistent results against Detroit - Split series with Minnesota

The 2010 NFC Championship loss to Green Bay at Soldier Field remains a particularly painful memory for Bears fans.

Cultural Impact

“Bear Down”

The Bears’ fight song, “Bear Down, Chicago Bears,” is played after touchdowns and victories, uniting fans across generations.

The 46 Defense

Buddy Ryan’s defensive scheme, named after safety Doug Plank, was designed to dominate division rivals and became the foundation of the Super Bowl XX championship.

Media Coverage

Bears-Packers games routinely draw the highest television ratings of any NFL regular-season matchup, reflecting the national appeal of this historic rivalry.

The rivalries are an essential part of Bears identity, connecting the team’s glorious past to its present and future. The annual meetings with Green Bay, Detroit, and Minnesota are circled on every Bears fan’s calendar.

Chicago Bears Stadium History

Soldier Field (1971-Present)

Overview

Soldier Field has been the home of the Chicago Bears since 1971. Located on Chicago’s lakefront on Lake Shore Drive, the stadium is one of the most iconic venues in professional sports.

Address: 1410 Museum Campus Drive, Chicago, Illinois 60605

Naming History

The stadium was officially renamed Soldier Field on November 11, 1925, to honor American soldiers who died in combat.

Capacity and Configuration

Original Capacity: 74,280 (various configurations over the years) Current Capacity: 61,500 (after 2002 renovation) Lower Capacity: Among the smallest in the NFL

Playing Surface: - 1971-1973: Natural grass - 1973-1987: AstroTurf (artificial turf) - 1988-2002: Natural grass - 2003-Present: Natural grass (various types, currently Bermuda grass)

Construction and Early Years

Original Construction: 1922-1924 Architects: Holabird & Roche Cost: $13 million (original construction)

Soldier Field opened in 1924 as Municipal Grant Park Stadium. The neoclassical design featured massive colonnades at the east and west ends, reminiscent of ancient Roman architecture. The original stadium had a much larger capacity, serving as a venue for numerous events beyond football.

The 2002-2003 Renovation

Timeline: Closed after 2001 season, reopened September 2003 Cost: $660 million Architect: Dirk Lohan (grandson of Ludwig Mies van der Rohe)

The renovation transformed Soldier Field from a traditional bowl stadium to a modern facility while preserving the historic colonnades. The changes included:

New Features: - Modern seating bowl with improved sightlines - 8,000+ club seats - 133 luxury suites - Modern concessions and restrooms - Enhanced accessibility - State-of-the-art video boards

Controversy: The renovation drastically altered the stadium’s interior while preserving the exterior facade. The National Park Service removed Soldier Field from the National Register of Historic Places following the renovation, though it was later reinstated.

Reduced Capacity: The renovation reduced capacity from approximately 66,000 to 61,500, making it the smallest stadium in the NFL by capacity.

Stadium Features

The Colonnades: The historic colonnades remain the defining architectural feature, honoring the stadium’s original design and its dedication to American soldiers.

Doughboy Statue: A statue of a World War I soldier (“Doughboy”) stands outside the stadium, honoring the venue’s namesake.

United Club: Premium seating area with climate-controlled lounges and premium food options.

Bears Pro Shop: Team store featuring merchandise and memorabilia.

Wrigley Field (1921-1970)

Overview

The Bears played at Wrigley Field (originally Cubs Park) from 1921 through 1970, sharing the facility with the Chicago Cubs baseball team.

Address: 1060 West Addison Street, Chicago, Illinois 60613

The Wrigley Field Era

1921-1932: Cubs Park
1932-1970: Wrigley Field (renamed after Cubs owner William Wrigley Jr.)

The Bears played 49 seasons at Wrigley Field, winning 6 NFL championships at the historic venue. The stadium’s intimate atmosphere and neighborhood setting created a unique football experience.

Capacity: Approximately 40,000 (varied over the years)

Challenges at Wrigley Field

Scheduling: The Bears shared the stadium with the Cubs, creating scheduling conflicts in September and early October. Baseball took priority, forcing the Bears to play early-season games on the road.

Field Dimensions: The football field barely fit in the baseball stadium. The east end zone extended into the right field corner, with a portion of the end zone in foul territory.

Facilities: By the 1960s, Wrigley Field’s facilities were outdated for NFL standards. There were no lights (the Bears played only day games), limited locker room space, and inadequate seating.

Notable Games at Wrigley Field

Championship Games: - 1933 NFL Championship: Bears 23, New York Giants 21 - 1940 NFL Championship: Bears 73, Washington Redskins 0 - 1941 NFL Championship: Bears 37, New York Giants 9 - 1943 NFL Championship: Bears 41, Washington Redskins 21 - 1946 NFL Championship: Bears 24, New York Giants 14 - 1963 NFL Championship: Bears 14, New York Giants 10

Final Game: December 13, 1970 - Bears 35, Green Bay Packers 17

Move to Soldier Field

The Bears played their final game at Wrigley Field on December 13, 1970, defeating the Green Bay Packers 35-17. The team moved to Soldier Field for the 1971 season.

Other Previous Venues

Staley Field (1919-1920)

The Decatur Staleys played at Staley Field in Decatur, Illinois, before moving to Chicago.

Chicago Stadium (1932)

The indoor arena hosted the 1932 NFL Championship Game when blizzard conditions made outdoor play impossible.

Stadium Comparisons

Economic Considerations

Stadium Financing

The 2002 renovation was funded through: - Chicago Bears contribution - Illinois Sports Facilities Authority bonds - Naming rights and sponsorships - Personal Seat Licenses (PSLs)

Revenue Challenges

Soldier Field’s smaller capacity limits revenue potential compared to newer NFL stadiums. The Bears consistently rank in the lower half of NFL revenue despite playing in the nation’s third-largest market.

Future Considerations

The Bears have explored options for a new stadium: - Arlington Heights: Purchased property at Arlington Park racetrack site - Soldier Field Renovation: Discussions about further improvements - Suburban Location: Consideration of move to suburbs for larger, modern facility

Stadium Experience

Game Day Atmosphere

Soldier Field provides an intimate NFL experience with its smaller capacity: - Fans are close to the action - Noise levels are significant despite open design - Lakefront setting provides unique views

Tailgating

The Museum Campus and surrounding lots provide extensive tailgating opportunities, with fans arriving hours before kickoff.

Access

• Public Transportation: Metra Electric, South Shore Line, CTA buses
• Walking: Part of Museum Campus near Field Museum and Shedd Aquarium
• Driving: Lake Shore Drive access, though parking is limited

Weather

As an outdoor stadium in Chicago, Soldier Field is subject to: - Cold winters (December and January games) - Lake-effect wind - Occasional rain and snow

The weather has historically given the Bears a home-field advantage.

Non-Football Events

Soccer

Soldier Field has hosted: - 1994 FIFA World Cup matches - 1999 FIFA Women’s World Cup matches - International friendlies - CONCACAF Gold Cup matches

Concerts

The stadium has hosted major concerts, though the smaller capacity limits its competitiveness.

Special Events

• 2015 NHL Winter Classic (Blackhawks vs. Bruins)
• 2007 CONCACAF Gold Cup final

Significance

Soldier Field represents: - A memorial to American soldiers (names of fallen soldiers are inscribed inside) - Historic architecture preserved through renovation - Home to one of the NFL’s charter franchises - Connection to Chicago’s lakefront and Museum Campus

Chicago Bears Fanbase and Culture

Fanbase Demographics

The Chicago Market

The Bears draw fans from one of America’s largest metropolitan areas: - Chicago metropolitan area: 9.5+ million residents - Primary market: Chicago and Cook County - Secondary markets: Illinois, Indiana, Wisconsin, Iowa - National following: One of the NFL’s most popular national brands

Fanbase Characteristics

• Blue-collar identity: The Bears traditionally represent Chicago’s working-class roots
• Generational loyalty: Families support the Bears across multiple generations
• Regional dominance: The Bears are Chicago’s most popular sports team
• **National appeal”: One of the NFL’s most recognizable brands internationally

The “Bears Nation”

The Bears fanbase extends far beyond Chicago: - Transplanted Chicagoans across the country - Illinois alumni nationwide - International fans attracted by the team’s historic brand - Cold-weather football enthusiasts who appreciate outdoor, physical football

Traditions and Celebrations

Bear Down

The Bears’ official fight song, “Bear Down, Chicago Bears,” was written in 1941 by Jerry Downs (a pseudonym for Al Hoffman).

Lyrics Excerpt: “Bear down, Chicago Bears, make every play clear the way to victory”

Usage: - Played after touchdowns - Played after victories - Sung by fans at games and events - Part of the Bears’ audio identity

The song connects modern fans to generations of Bears supporters and is one of the oldest continuously used fight songs in the NFL.

The Super Bowl Shuffle

Released in 1985 during the Bears’ championship season, “The Super Bowl Shuffle” was a rap song featuring Bears players. It was recorded to raise money for charity and became a cultural phenomenon.

Legacy: - First professional sports team music video - Reached #41 on the Billboard Hot 100 - Won a Grammy Award - Controversial at the time (some viewed it as arrogant) - Now celebrated as a symbol of the 1985 team’s confidence and swagger

The song featured prominent players including Walter Payton, Jim McMahon, Mike Singletary, Richard Dent, and William “Refrigerator” Perry.

The 46 Defense

While not a fan tradition, the 46 Defense created by Buddy Ryan is part of Bears lore. Named after safety Doug Plank (#46), the scheme was designed to aggressively attack opposing offenses.

Legacy: - Foundation of the 1985 championship defense - Represents aggressive, physical Bears football - Referenced by fans and analysts discussing great defenses

Gameday Rituals

The “Bear Down” Chant: Fans engage in coordinated chants of “Bear Down” during crucial moments of games.

The Fourth Quarter Tradition: The song “Sirius” by The Alan Parsons Project (also known as the Chicago Bulls’ intro music) is sometimes played to energize the crowd.

Victory Celebration: After victories, fans sing “Bear Down, Chicago Bears” as players celebrate on the field.

Mascots and Symbols

Staley Da Bear

Debut: 2003 (following Soldier Field renovation)

Staley Da Bear is the official mascot of the Chicago Bears. The character is named after A.E. Staley, the founder of the Decatur Staleys (the Bears’ original name).

Appearance: An anthropomorphic bear wearing a Bears jersey (#00)

Role: - Entertains fans during games - Appears at community events - Participates in charity functions - Interacts with fans in the stands

The Bears Logo

Current Logo: An orange wishbone “C” with white trim

History: - The Bears have used variations of the wishbone “C” since the 1950s - The logo is similar to the Cincinnati Reds’ “C” but with different colors - The orange “C” on a white helmet is one of the NFL’s most iconic images

Uniforms

Home Uniforms: Navy blue jerseys with orange and white trim, white pants Away Uniforms: White jerseys with navy blue and orange trim, white pants Throwback Uniforms: Navy blue jerseys with orange numerals (1936-style throwbacks worn occasionally)

The Bears have maintained a traditional, classic uniform design that connects to their history.

Fan Organizations

The Bears Fan Network

Season Ticket Holders: Over 30,000 season ticket accounts Waiting List: Extensive waiting list for season tickets (decades long historically) Fan Clubs: Official and unofficial fan clubs throughout the country

Supporters’ Groups

The Bear Report: Longtime fan publication covering the team Windy City Gridiron: Popular fan blog and community Various social media groups: Facebook, Reddit (r/CHIBears), and other platforms

Media and Broadcasting

Radio Broadcast Team

Flagship Station: WBBM 780 AM / 105.9 FM Play-by-Play: Jeff Joniak Analyst: Tom Thayer Sideline Reporter: Mark Grote

Joniak and Thayer have formed one of the longest-tenured broadcast teams in the NFL, providing the soundtrack to Bears football for generations of fans.

Television

Preseason Games: Broadcast on various local stations Regular Season: National broadcasts on CBS, FOX, NBC, ESPN, and Amazon Postseason: National broadcasts

Spanish Language

Radio: WRTO 1200 AM (Spanish broadcasts)

Digital and Social Media

• Website: Chicagobears.com
• Twitter/X: @ChicagoBears
• Instagram: @chicagobears
• TikTok: Behind-the-scenes content
• YouTube: Game highlights, historical content

Community Impact

The Bears Care Foundation

The charitable arm of the Chicago Bears focuses on: - Youth education and literacy - Health and wellness programs - Youth football development - Support for military families

Chicago Bears Community Relations

• Youth Football: Programs to develop football at the grassroots level
• School Programs: Partnerships with Chicago Public Schools
• Military Appreciation: Salute to Service initiatives
• Player Involvement: Community service requirements for players

George Halas Award

The Pro Football Writers of America presents the George Halas Award annually to the NFL player, coach, or staff member who overcomes adversity to succeed. This honors the Bears’ founder and his legacy of perseverance.

Tailgating and Gameday Experience

Soldier Field Tailgating

The Museum Campus parking lots and surrounding areas fill with fans hours before kickoff: - Food: Chicago-style hot dogs, Italian beef, sausages, and traditional tailgate fare - Drink: Beer and other beverages (alcohol policies strictly enforced) - Activities: Games, grilling, socializing - Atmosphere: Family-friendly but passionate

Gameday Timeline

• Lots Open: 4 hours before kickoff
• Stadium Gates Open: 2 hours before kickoff
• Warmups: 90 minutes before kickoff
• Player Introductions: 10 minutes before kickoff
• Kickoff: Game time

The Stadium Experience

Intimacy: Soldier Field’s smaller capacity creates an intimate atmosphere Noise: Despite the open design, Bears fans can generate significant noise Weather: Cold-weather games are embraced as part of the Bears tradition Views: Lakefront setting provides unique scenery

Merchandise and Branding

Iconic Merchandise

• The Bears Hoodie: Navy blue hoodie with Bears logo
• The Walter Payton Jersey: #34 remains one of the top-selling throwback jerseys
• The 1985 Throwback: Apparel celebrating the championship team
• Winter Gear: Essential for cold-weather games

Top-Selling Items

• Home navy blue jerseys
• Winter knit hats
• Hoodies and sweatshirts
• Vintage-style apparel

Rivalry Culture

Green Bay Packers

The Bears-Packers rivalry drives fan engagement: - Circled on the Calendar: Fans identify these games first when the schedule is released - Division of Households: Families split along Bears-Packers lines - Workplace Rivalries: Office pools and friendly wagers - The Halas-Lombardi Trophy: Bragging rights for the winner

Detroit Lions

• Thanksgiving Tradition: Bears fans plan their holidays around the Thanksgiving game
• Divisional Stakes: Games often have playoff implications

Minnesota Vikings

• Competitive Rivalry: Fans enjoy the competitive tension with Minnesota
• The Favre Factor: Brett Favre’s move to Minnesota added animosity

Challenges and Evolution

Recent Struggles

The Bears’ lack of consistent success since 2010 has tested fan loyalty: - Playoff droughts - Quarterback instability - Coaching changes

Despite struggles, the fanbase has remained largely loyal, with strong season ticket retention.

Generational Shift

Younger fans have different expectations and consumption habits: - Social media engagement - Fantasy football focus - Analytics appreciation - Streaming consumption

The Bears have adapted their marketing and engagement strategies to connect with younger demographics while maintaining traditions for older fans.

Economic Impact

Local Economy

Bears games generate significant economic impact: - Restaurant and bar business on gamedays - Hotel occupancy - Tourism - Retail merchandise sales

Regional Identity

The Bears are a source of civic pride: - Winning: Championships unite the city - Losing: Shared disappointment bonds fans - Tradition: The Bears represent Chicago’s resilience and character

The Future of Bears Fandom

As the Bears potentially move to a new stadium in Arlington Heights, the fanbase faces questions about: - Accessibility: Suburban location vs. city location - Atmosphere: Maintaining the Soldier Field experience - Tradition: Preserving history while modernizing - Growth: Expanding the fanbase in a new facility

Regardless of location, the Bears fanbase remains one of the NFL’s most passionate and historically significant communities.