McCaskey Family Welcomes Lance Briggs to Bears Ownership Group in Strategic Move to Enhance Franchise Legacy
In a move that has taken many in the NFL community by surprise, the Chicago Bears, long owned and operated by the McCaskey family, have reportedly welcomed former Pro Bowl linebacker Lance Briggs into their ownership group. While unconfirmed by official Bears channels as of this writing, the prospect of Briggs joining the ownership ranks marks a potentially transformative moment for the storied franchise. This move, if confirmed, could signal a new era of leadership, diversity, and football intelligence at the highest level of the organization.
Lance Briggs, one of the most iconic defensive players in modern Bears history, played his entire 12-season NFL career in Chicago. Teaming with Hall of Famer Brian Urlacher, Briggs was the heart of the Bears’ defense during the 2000s, earning seven Pro Bowl nods and helping lead the team to Super Bowl XLI. Known for his intelligence, discipline, and leadership on the field, Briggs brought a level of intensity and consistency that endeared him to fans and coaches alike.
His potential addition to the ownership group would be unprecedented for the Bears. The franchise has remained tightly held by the McCaskey family, descendants of George Halas, since its inception. Virginia Halas McCaskey, who served as principal owner until her passing in early 2025, was revered for her deep connection to the game and the team. Her son, George McCaskey, now leads the franchise’s operations. Including a former player—especially one as respected as Briggs—could represent an intentional effort to modernize the front office, bring in diverse voices, and build a bridge between past and future eras of Bears football.
Strategically, this move would also align with growing trends across the NFL. Increasingly, franchises are embracing former players in executive and ownership roles. From John Elway in Denver to Derek Jeter’s former ownership role in MLB, sports franchises are recognizing the unique value athletes bring to team governance. A figure like Briggs brings not only football acumen but also a deep understanding of the Bears’ culture and expectations. He understands the pressure of playing in Chicago, the pride of wearing the navy and orange, and the legacy he would help steward.
From a fan perspective, the move could reenergize a franchise that has struggled with consistency on the field in recent years. With a new quarterback in the mix, recent stadium development plans underway, and growing calls for modern leadership, a shift in ownership makeup could symbolize broader change. Briggs’ connection with the community, his post-career work in sports media, and his reputation as a thoughtful voice in football circles only strengthen the potential upside of his involvement.
Ultimately, the idea of Lance Briggs joining the Bears’ ownership group—whether speculative or confirmed in time—reflects a franchise at a crossroads. Looking to honor its legendary past while building a competitive future, bringing Briggs into the fold may be one of the most meaningful moves the McCaskey family could make.
