Chicago Bears President/CEO to Retire

In a move that could send shockwaves through one of the NFL's premier franchises, Chicago Bears President/CEO Ted Phillips has announced plans to retire following the 2022 NFL season. Dan Pompei of the Athletic broke the news:

BREAKING: Bears president/CEO Ted Phillips retiring at the end of the 2022 season. My exclusive story for @theathletic here. https://t.co/PUujAz6Vln

— Dan Pompei (@danpompei) September 2, 2022

Phillips leaves the Bears after nearly 40 years with the organization. President/CEO since 1999, he has seen the Bears through an era of massive financial success; Forbes recently ranked the team fifth in projected franchise value at $5.8 billion. That prosperity comes despite the Bears sporting a losing record under Phillip's tenure, with only six playoff appearances in his 23 seasons.

Photo Credit: © Jon Durr-USA TODAY Sports

Phillip's retirement is another big change in an era of significant upheaval for the Bears. The team recently purchased land in Arlington Heights with the intention to build a new stadium and leave Soldier Field, their home since 1971. Principal owner Virginia Halas McCaskey turned 99 this year and discussions of selling the franchise have heated up in recent years.

The Bears will begin their search for a successor to Phillips immediately. Whoever they choose will look to reestablish a consistent winning culture the team hasn't seen since the 80s.  

Photo Credit: © David Banks-USA TODAY Sports