George McCaskey is making one thing abundantly clear—he has no interest in letting the Chicago Bears leave his family’s control. Speaking at the NFL owners meetings on Wednesday, the longtime chairman of the Bears reinforced his commitment to keeping the franchise in the McCaskey name for generations to come. While speculation has swirled over the years about the possibility of a sale or a shift in power, McCaskey dismissed such notions outright.
“We’ve said for many years that we intend to own the Bears for as long as possible,” McCaskey stated. “Another 100 years would be great.”
The McCaskey family’s connection to the Bears runs deep, dating back to team founder George Halas, who helped shape not just the franchise but also the entire National Football League. The Halas legacy has been central to the Bears’ identity, making them one of the most storied franchises in professional football. However, as the NFL has evolved into a league dominated by billionaire owners and corporate interests, questions about whether the McCaskeys can remain competitive in this modern financial landscape have persisted.
Despite those challenges, McCaskey is resolute. While other historic franchises like the Denver Broncos have been sold to high-powered ownership groups in recent years, the Bears remain a family-run operation. The McCaskeys have resisted pressures to sell, even as the value of NFL franchises continues to skyrocket. The Bears, one of the league’s most valuable and recognizable teams, are estimated to be worth well over $5 billion, making them an attractive asset for potential buyers. Yet, McCaskey insists that his family has no interest in cashing out.
This declaration comes at a pivotal moment for the franchise. The Bears are in a period of transition, both on and off the field. There is the ongoing effort to build a new stadium—potentially in Arlington Heights—where the team envisions a state-of-the-art facility that could redefine the future of the organization. There is also the ever-present challenge of returning the Bears to consistent playoff contention after years of inconsistency.
Many fans and analysts have speculated whether new ownership or outside investors could provide the necessary financial and strategic boost to propel the Bears forward. But McCaskey remains steadfast in his belief that his family is best suited to lead the franchise. The McCaskeys have faced criticism in the past for their football decisions, and some within the fanbase have questioned whether the team would be better served under a different ownership structure. However, McCaskey’s comments reaffirm that no such change is on the horizon.
Ultimately, McCaskey’s vision for the Bears is one of longevity, continuity, and tradition. While the NFL continues to evolve, he remains committed to preserving the family legacy and ensuring that the Chicago Bears remain under McCaskey control for another century. Whether that vision will bring the Bears back to championship glory remains to be seen, but for now, one thing is certain—the McCaskeys are not going anywhere.
