The Chicago Bears hold the distinction of being the oldest continuously operating franchise in the NFL. Founded in 1919 as the Decatur Staleys before moving to Chicago in 1921, the team has remained a constant presence through league mergers, realignments, and rule changes.
Unlike several early teams that folded or relocated, the Bears have competed in every season of the modern NFL era since 1921. This uninterrupted history makes them the definitive answer to the question of which organization is the oldest team in the league.
| Team | Current Name Since | Original Founding | Continuity Status |
|---|---|---|---|
| Chicago Bears | 1922 | 1919 (as Decatur Staleys) | Active, never missed a season |
| Arizona Cardinals | 1988 | 1898 (as Morgan Athletic Club) | Active, lineage traces to 1898 |
| Green Bay Packers | 1921 | 1919 | Active, never missed a season |
| 1925 | 1925 | Active, never missed a season |
Historic Origins Of The Decatur Staleys
The team that would become the Chicago Bears began in 1919 in Decatur, Illinois, as the Decatur Staleys. The club was established by the A. E. Staley Manufacturing Company as a company-sponsored athletic club for workers.
Initially, the Staleys played primarily against other company teams and local college squads. Their early success and growing fan base led team manager George Halas to recognize the potential of moving the operation to Chicago, a much larger market with significantly more exposure and revenue opportunities.
Move To Chicago And Naming Evolution
In 1921, the franchise relocated to Chicago and became a charter member of the American Professional Football Association, which would later be renamed the National Football League. The following year, in 1922, the team officially adopted the Bears name, a tribute to the team’s earlier identity and the Chicago Cubs’ then-popular cubs mascot.
This relocation and rebranding marked a pivotal moment in the evolution of the franchise. Playing out of iconic venues like Wrigley Field and later Soldier Field, the Bears built a fanbase that remains among the most passionate and loyal in professional sports.
NFL History And Legacy
Since the league’s early days, the Bears have compiled an extensive historical record. They claim multiple league championships from the pre-Super Bowl era and secured their first NFL championship in 1933. The franchise also played a central role in the 1940 matchup against the Washington Football Team, highlighting the strategic evolution of the game.
Their legacy is further cemented by pioneering contributions to team operations, including the establishment of one of the league’s earliest front offices and scouting departments. This long-term organizational stability distinguishes the Bears as a model franchise in terms of continuity and professional management.
Modern Era And Current Status
Today, the Bears compete in the National Football Conference and remain one of the most recognized franchises in the league. The team continues its tradition of on-field competitiveness while navigating the modern business landscape of broadcasting rights, player contracts, and salary cap management.
Generations of fans have grown up watching legendary players don the navy and orange, creating a cultural identity that extends far beyond the scoreboard. The franchise’s commitment to preserving its heritage while adapting to contemporary trends ensures its ongoing relevance.
Key Takeaways For NFL Fans
- The Chicago Bears are the oldest active team in the NFL, founded in 1919.
- The franchise moved from Decatur to Chicago in 1921 and adopted the Bears name in 1922.
- They hold the record for continuous operation without a single missed season.
- Their history includes foundational moments that shaped modern NFL strategy and governance.
- The team remains a cultural icon with a legacy that influences current league dynamics.
FAQ
Reader questions
How long has the Chicago Bears organization been in existence?
The franchise was founded in 1919, making it over 100 years old and the oldest continuously operating team in the NFL.
Why is the Bears considered the oldest team instead of the Cardinals?
While the Cardinals have an earlier founding date as an amateur club, the Bears have competed continuously in the same city and league structure since 1921 without interruption.
Has the Bears name always been the same since the beginning?
No, the team originated as the Decatur Staleys before moving to Chicago and changing the name to the Bears in 1922.
What milestone does the Bears hold in NFL history?
The Bears are recognized as the oldest franchise with an unbroken lineage, having participated in every season of professional football since the league’s earliest days.