As Chicago-area football fans grapple with the Bears’ board of directors’ vote to “advance” the new stadium project in Hammond, Indiana, many are wondering if the team will drop “Chicago” from their title if they move out of state.
Though the exact site in Indiana has not yet been determined, the Bears announced on Friday that the board’s vote was made the day prior.
Dave Wannstedt, former Chicago Bears coach from 1993-98, spoke with NBC Chicago shortly after the team’s announcement about how he sees things playing out.
Wannstedt said he “would be shocked” to see the team change its name.
“Let’s be real about this. The Chicago Bears survived the Great Depression. They survived World War II. I mean, we got to have the Chicago Bears,” Wannstedt said.
Wannstedt’s thoughts were echoed by fans as they reacted to the announcement, with many expressing disappointment when speaking to NBC Chicago and on social media.
“It’s disappointing, the team belongs in Illinois,” said Bears fan Dan McQuade who spoke with NBC Chicago shortly after the announcement was made.
Several Instagram users left comments on the team’s announcement post asking if they plan to change their name from the Chicago Bears or the lyrics to the team’s historic touchdown song — that states “you’re the pride and joy of Illinois!” — to account for the out-of-state move.
