Earlier today, the Kansas City Chiefs announced their plan to host games with fans at approximately 22 percent capacity. And when I read the news, I wondered if other teams would follow suit.
One team that won’t be doing so is the Chicago Bears:
Chicago Bears statement on fans at Soldier Field: pic.twitter.com/uaUSxQJipx
— Chicago Bears (@ChicagoBears) August 17, 2020
For starters, this isn’t a big surprise. Because even though Bears CEO Ted Phillips remained “hopeful” the Bears could play games at Soldier Field in 2020, it came with a caveat. As far as I’m concerned, there wasn’t a high probability of fans being allowed to begin with. Even still … a scenario (however unlikely it was) existed in which fans might be allowed at Soldier Field in 2020 — but probably not right away.
On the bright side, the announcement stated a time could come for Soldier Field to host fans. And if that time comes, the team, health officials, and Chicago Park District seem prepared with a plan. Moreover, the team’s statement said it would continue to monitor the situation, allowing for future flexibility. That’s not nothing. At minimum, at least there’s a small glimmer of hope for the select few with access to tickets. Remember, season-ticket holders will get first crack at single-game tickets should they become available and fans are allowed in the stands.
The Giants, Colts, Buccaneers, Saints, and Texans are scheduled to visit Soldier Field. Bears fans could miss seeing a number of stars in person this year. Philip Rivers, Tom Brady, Drew Brees, and Deshaun Watson were among the headliners scheduled to play in Chicago. For guys like Brady, Brees, and Rivers, this could be each’s last hurrah in Chicago. Unfortunately, fans might not be in the stands to see them. And while that stinks – for obvious reasons – health and safety have taken priority (as they should).