Bears coach reveals advantage Caleb Williams will lose when team leaves Soldier Field in $4.7bn relocation
The Chicago Bears are fully focused on their first playoff appearance since 2021, but in the background, stadium drama bubbles.
Seven months ago, the historic NFL franchise confirmed their focus is building a $4.7 billion domed facility in Arlington Heights, Illinois, ready to open in 2029.
But the project hasn’t been straightforward for the Bears, with team president Kevin Warren writing to fans in December to reveal that progress had stalled.
They are now expanding the search for a new stadium site over state lines and into Indiana.
Warren’s message to fans read: “As we move forward, our goal is clear: build a world-class football team that has a world-class stadium worthy of our world-class fans — a stadium that reflects the future we are building together.”
Clearly, the Bears ownership is determined to leave Soldier Field and the shores of Lake Michigan, where they have played since 1924.
But when they do finally depart downtown Chicago, they will actually lose a big advantage that comes with playing inside the oldest stadium in the NFL.
Bears coach reveals how Soldier Field benefits his offense
As he spoke about Caleb Williams throwing a sensational 46-yard touchdown pass in overtime to beat the Green Bay Packers in Week 16, offensive coordinator Declan Doyle explained why Soldier Field gives his team the upper hand.
“We do feel like it’s an advantage for us because it does get windy,” Doyle told reporters.
“We have to play in the elements and we feel like we have a quarterback that can cut the wind a little bit.
“Regardless of where we’re playing or what the conditions are, we feel like he’s going to be able to throw the ball well.”
Should the Bears move to a domed stadium in the coming years, those inside will be protected from the elements, and Williams’ offense could lose that edge.
The quarterback, of course, won’t be playing forever.
But Williams is only in his second season with the Bears, and the franchise will want to give him as much of an advantage as possible right now.
The way last year’s first overall pick has dealt with home conditions this season has been impressive.
In 2025, Chicago has lost just one of their seven games at Solider Field, and that was back in Week 1.
Why do the Bears want to build a dome?
The decision to pursue a domed stadium, though, wouldn’t have been taken likely.
Announcing the plans, Warren shared hope that a roof would help the city become a Super Bowl host.
Building a dome would also mean the new facility can host other big events, like the NCAA Final Four, international soccer matches and concerts.
The team has also promised that a new stadium would elevate the fan experience, and a mixed-use entertainment district with residential units, retail, hotel and office space around the venue.
Stadium plans might be in limbo for now, but the Bears are determined to leave Soldier Field — and that means Williams and the offense should make the most of the advantage they have right now.
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