Chicago Bears Chairman George McCaskey has broken his silence regarding the growing chorus of “Sell the Team” chants that have erupted from fans at Soldier Field, addressing the mounting pressure on the McCaskey family to sell the franchise. In a recent statement, McCaskey defended his family’s ownership, asserting that the team’s long-term vision and commitment to the city remain strong despite the criticism.
The McCaskey family, which has owned the Bears since 1983, has faced increasing scrutiny in recent years. The franchise, which boasts a rich history and a loyal fanbase, has struggled on the field. With just two playoff appearances since 2010 and no Super Bowl wins since the 1985 championship team, Bears fans have become increasingly disillusioned with the team’s direction, performance, and management.
The Growing Discontent Among Fans
Over the past several seasons, Chicago Bears fans have expressed frustration not only with the team’s lackluster performance but also with the apparent inability of ownership to make decisive changes. From botched coaching hires to questionable front-office decisions, fans have grown disillusioned with what they perceive as a stagnant organization. This frustration has boiled over into the stands, where “Sell the Team” chants have become more common, particularly during games where the Bears suffer humiliating defeats or display a lack of competitiveness.
The chants reached a fever pitch during the 2024 season, culminating in loud, organized outbursts from fans during a home game against a divisional rival. As the Bears continue to languish near the bottom of the NFC North standings, calls for a change in ownership have intensified.
McCaskey’s Response
In his first public response to the “Sell the Team” movement, McCaskey addressed the concerns of Bears fans while standing by his family’s ownership of the team.
“We understand the frustrations of our fans,” McCaskey said in a press conference. “We are just as passionate about the Chicago Bears as anyone. We want to win, we want to put a competitive team on the field, and we are doing everything we can to make that happen. But selling the team is not an option. We are committed to this franchise, to this city, and to this community.”
McCaskey also highlighted the Bears’ long-term plans, noting that the team is in the midst of significant organizational changes. “We’re not just focusing on today or tomorrow. We’re looking at the next 10 to 20 years. Our vision for the Bears is a championship-caliber team, and that will take time.”
However, critics remain unconvinced. They point to the Bears’ failure to capitalize on prime opportunities for success, such as the hiring of a competent head coach, the development of the quarterback position, and the management of the team’s talent. Many feel that the McCaskey family has grown complacent, allowing the Bears to fall behind other NFL teams in terms of strategy, player development, and fan engagement.
The McCaskey Family Legacy
The McCaskey family has owned the Bears for over 40 years, and much of the franchise’s identity is tied to its long history. George McCaskey is the son of Virginia McCaskey, the daughter of Bears founder George Halas. The McCaskeys have always positioned themselves as stewards of the Bears’ legacy, committed to maintaining the franchise’s tradition of excellence. However, the family’s management style, which has been described as conservative and risk-averse, has drawn the ire of many fans and analysts who believe the team needs a more dynamic approach.
Virginia McCaskey, now in her 100s, has largely stayed out of the public eye in recent years, leaving George to represent the family’s interests. The McCaskeys have consistently avoided selling the team or even entertaining the idea of bringing in new ownership. While this steadfast approach has been praised by some as a testament to their dedication, others argue that fresh ownership could bring new energy and ideas to a franchise that has been stuck in mediocrity for too long.
The Financial Implications of Selling the Team
While many fans are clamoring for a sale, there are significant financial hurdles to overcome for the McCaskeys if they were to entertain the idea of selling the Bears. The team is one of the most valuable franchises in the NFL, with estimates putting its worth at over $5 billion. A sale would require finding a buyer capable of handling the immense cost, as well as navigating a complicated ownership transition process.
Moreover, the Bears are in the midst of a major development project with the planned move to a new stadium in Arlington Heights, a suburb of Chicago. This shift, which is expected to cost billions of dollars, has been a key part of the McCaskeys’ long-term strategy. Many view the move as the beginning of a new chapter for the franchise, and the family is determined to see it through despite the current discontent among fans.
Fan Reaction and the Future of the Bears
The “Sell the Team” chants are not likely to subside soon. The Bears’ loyal fanbase has been frustrated for over a decade with the team’s inability to return to Super Bowl contention, and as the McCaskeys continue to defend their ownership, the tension between the franchise and its supporters may only intensify.
However, McCaskey’s response does suggest that the family remains committed to building a competitive team, even if the process takes longer than many fans would like. “We are going to continue investing in the team, in the facility, and in our community. Our priority is to deliver a championship to the city of Chicago,” McCaskey stated.
Whether or not this commitment will be enough to quell the calls for a change in ownership remains to be seen. As the franchise prepares for another offseason of potential roster moves and coaching changes, one thing is clear: the Bears’ future is at a crossroads, and the direction they take will be closely scrutinized by both fans and the NFL alike.