The Chicago Bears will keep their iconic name despite relocating to Hammond, Indiana. Indiana Governor Mike Braun confirmed on The Herd with Colin Cowherd that the team will not become the “Hammond Bears,” calling the idea of a name change “obtuse” and affirming the franchise’s identity will remain tied to Chicago.
Will the Chicago Bears change their name after moving to Indiana?
No, the franchise does not intend to adopt a new identity. While moving cities often prompts teams to rename themselves after their new home, the Bears are sticking to their roots. According to reports from Gridiron Heroics, the decision to maintain the “Chicago Bears” moniker has already been made.
Indiana Governor Mike Braun addressed the speculation directly during an appearance on The Herd with Colin Cowherd. He was blunt about the team’s branding, stating that it would be “obtuse” to suggest they become the Hammond Bears. He insisted that the team is, and will remain, the Chicago Bears.
“No, no (we’re not changing the name). That would be obtuse to think it would be the Hammond Bears. It’s the Chicago Bears,” Governor Braun said.
This decision maintains the brand equity the team has built over decades, even as the physical location of their operations shifts across state lines into Northwest Indiana.
Fans often point to NFL precedents to justify name retention. For example, many fans note that teams like the New York Jets or the New York Giants do not change their names to reflect specific boroughs or nearby locations like New Jersey, even when playing in different venues.
What is driving the Bears’ move to Hammond?
The relocation centers on the construction of a “world-class stadium facility” in Hammond, Indiana. This move is part of a broader effort to create an economic engine for the Northwest Indiana region. Governor Mike Braun has characterized the move as a massive opportunity for growth that will benefit both the state and the Bears organization for decades.
The project is not a solo venture. In a formal statement released on June 5, 2026, Governor Braun expressed gratitude to Speaker Huston, the state legislature, and Mayor McDermott for their roles in facilitating the partnership. The collaboration aims to secure an NFL franchise that provides a significant economic boost to the entire region.
While the move has been described as “serious steps” toward relocation, it has also sparked intense debate. The transition from a major metropolitan hub like Chicago to a facility in Hammond marks one of the most significant geographic shifts in recent NFL history.
How are fans and stakeholders reacting to the news?
The reaction has been deeply divided. In Chicago, the news has reportedly enraged fans who feel a sense of loss as the team prepares to leave the city. On the other hand, the move has sparked cynical commentary from some observers regarding the financial implications of the stadium deal.
Social media reactions highlight a range of emotions:
- Economic Skepticism: Some critics have questioned the use of taxpayer funds, suggesting that if a government won’t pay for a new stadium, private entities or other states will step in to fill the void.
- Regional Identity: Some fans have reacted to the political landscape of the move, comparing the current administration’s handling of state affairs to previous leadership.
- Brand Loyalty: Despite the relocation, many fans seem resigned to the fact that the “Chicago Bears” brand is too powerful to change.
As the team moves closer to finalizing its presence in Indiana, the tension between the team’s Chicago identity and its new Indiana home is expected to remain a central theme for the franchise.
Frequently Asked Questions
Where exactly are the Chicago Bears moving?
The team is moving to Hammond, Indiana, where they plan to build a world-class stadium facility.
Will the team be renamed the Hammond Bears?
No. Governor Mike Braun confirmed that the team will keep the name “Chicago Bears.”
Who is involved in the stadium partnership?
The move involves a partnership between the Bears organization, Governor Mike Braun, Speaker Huston, and Mayor McDermott.
What do you think about the Bears keeping their name? Is it a smart business move or a slap in the face to Indiana? Let us know in the comments below!
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