Overview of NFL teams in Illinois
Illinois has a rich history in professional football, with multiple teams representing the state in the National Football League (NFL). The most well-known and successful team is the Chicago Bears, who have won multiple championships and have a dedicated fan base. However, Illinois has also been home to several other NFL teams, some of which have since relocated or disbanded.
The Chicago Bears: The Windy City’s team
The Chicago Bears are one of the oldest and most storied franchises in the NFL. They were established in 1920 in Decatur, Illinois, as the Decatur Staleys, before moving to Chicago the following year. The team has won nine NFL championships, including one Super Bowl, and has produced numerous Hall of Fame players, such as Walter Payton and Dick Butkus. The Bears play their home games at Soldier Field in Chicago and are a beloved institution in the city.
The Chicago Cardinals: A brief history
The Chicago Cardinals were another NFL team that called Illinois home. They were established in 1898 as the Morgan Athletic Club and joined the NFL in 1920. The team played in Chicago until 1960, when they moved to St. Louis and became the St. Louis Cardinals. They later relocated again and are now known as the Arizona Cardinals. The Cardinals won two NFL championships during their time in Chicago and produced Hall of Fame players such as Ernie Nevers and Charley Trippi.
The St. Louis Rams: Relocation to Illinois
The St. Louis Rams were another NFL team that had a brief stint in Illinois. The team was established in 1936 in Cleveland and moved to Los Angeles in 1946. They later moved to St. Louis in 1995, where they played for over two decades before relocating again to Los Angeles in 2016. However, during the 2015 season, the Rams played one home game at Soldier Field in Chicago as part of the NFL’s International Series.
The Chicago Rockets: Defunct NFL team
The Chicago Rockets were a short-lived NFL team that played in the 1940 season. They were established as the Pittsburgh Americans but relocated to Chicago before the season began. The team struggled on the field, winning only one game, and folded after the season. The Rockets are now largely forgotten in NFL history.
The Chicago Tigers: Another defunct team
The Chicago Tigers were another ill-fated NFL team that played in 1920 and 1921. They were originally established as the Hammond Pros but moved to Chicago before the 1920 season. The team struggled on the field and folded after the 1921 season. The Tigers are notable for being the first NFL team to sign a black player, Fritz Pollard, in 1920.
The Decatur Staleys: Origins of the Bears
As previously mentioned, the Decatur Staleys were the predecessor to the Chicago Bears. The team was established in 1920 and played in Decatur, Illinois, before moving to Chicago the following year. The Staleys won the NFL championship in their inaugural season, and the team’s owner, George Halas, would go on to become one of the most influential figures in NFL history.
The Rock Island Independents: A forgotten team
The Rock Island Independents were another short-lived NFL team that played in Illinois. They were established in 1907 and joined the NFL in 1920. The team played in Rock Island, Illinois, and is notable for being the first team to play a night game in NFL history. The Independents folded after the 1925 season and are now largely forgotten in NFL history.
The Chicago Bruisers: Arena football in Illinois
The Chicago Bruisers were a professional arena football team that played in Chicago from 1987 to 1989. They were one of the original teams in the Arena Football League and won the league championship in 1988. The team’s owner, Jim Foster, is credited with inventing the sport of arena football.
The Chicago Enforcers: Another arena football team
The Chicago Enforcers were another arena football team that played in Chicago from 2001 to 2002. They were part of the short-lived XFL, a professional football league that lasted only one season. The Enforcers played their home games at Soldier Field and were coached by former NFL player Ron Meyer.
Other notable NFL players from Illinois
In addition to the various NFL teams that have called Illinois home, the state has also produced many notable NFL players. Some of these include Ray Nitschke, Red Grange, Otto Graham, and Tony Romo. These players have made an impact on the sport both on and off the field and are remembered as some of the best to ever play the game.
Conclusion: NFL presence in Illinois
Illinois has a rich history in professional football, with numerous NFL teams and players from the state. While some of these teams have since relocated or disbanded, the Chicago Bears remain a beloved institution in the city. Illinois has also played host to various arena football teams and produced many notable NFL players. The state’s contribution to the sport of football is a testament to the passion and dedication of its fans.
