The Chicago Bears are entering a pivotal 2026 offseason following a 2025 campaign that many fans described as the most exciting in two decades. As of February 19, 2026, the franchise is balancing a high-stakes search for a new stadium home with aggressive roster-building strategies under the leadership of General Manager Ryan Poles and new Head Coach Ben Johnson.
Stadium Saga: Illinois Battles Iowa and Indiana for the Bears
The future of where the “Monsters of the Midway” will play is currently the subject of a multi-state bidding war. While the team has long considered moving from Soldier Field, new developments this week have intensified the competition:
- Illinois Tax Break: A critical hearing is scheduled for today, Thursday, February 19, in Springfield regarding a bill that would grant the Bears a long-term property tax break. This legislation is seen as the primary incentive to keep the team in Illinois.
- Iowa’s “Hail Mary”: Iowa Governor Kim Reynolds has publicly supported a “wild pass” legislative effort to lure the franchise to the Hawkeye State with significant economic incentives.
- Indiana Deadline: Officials in Northwest Indiana are facing a looming deadline to finalize a proposal for a stadium in the Portage area, though local sentiment remains divided.
Roster Outlook: Caleb Williams and 2026 Free Agency
Following a 2025 season where rookie quarterback Caleb Williams and receiver Rome Odunze showed flashes of elite potential, the Bears are expected to be major players in the trade and free-agent markets. Analysts suggest the team is prioritizing the defensive line and offensive tackle positions.
Rumors are heating up regarding a potential blockbuster trade for Las Vegas Raiders star Maxx Crosby or Cincinnati’s Trey Hendrickson to bolster the pass rush. Additionally, the Bears are heavily linked to veteran offensive tackle Cam Robinson, who is predicted to command a $12 million deal in free agency to provide better protection for Williams.
Coaching Changes and Front Office Moves
The Ben Johnson era is officially underway. The Bears announced a series of coaching staff additions and internal promotions yesterday, February 18, as Johnson finalizes his vision for the 2026 season. The staff is reportedly focusing on “reshaping the secondary,” leading to questions about whether All-Pro safety Kevin Byard will remain with the team or if the Bears will seek younger talent in the draft.
Fan Impact: Ticket Prices and Public Sentiment
While excitement for the team is high, the cost of fandom is rising. The Bears recently announced an average 13.5% increase in season-ticket prices for the 2026 season. Despite the hike, public sentiment remains largely positive due to the team’s upward trajectory and the performance of the 2025 rookie class, which PFF recently graded as one of the highest in the league.
With a historic record of 809-652-42 and nine total championships, the Bears are looking to leverage their current momentum to return to Super Bowl contention for the first time since 2006.