The Chicago Bears and Cincinnati Bengals have had dilapidated stadiums for years, and the decision to build new venues is slow. Now wild thoughts about a franchise move are emerging – which is not going down well with the fans at all.

The NFL offseason is notoriously long. Very long.

Crazy theories can arise, the seven-month break must finally be filled.

ProFootballTalk has now put forward such a theory on the protracted stadium issue of the Chicago Bears and Cincinnati Bengals.

Both teams have been evaluating whether to modernize their stadiums or move completely for years – but there is no real movement on this.

The American news outlet has now come up with a wild suggestion.

NFL: Will the Bengals move from Cincinnati to Chicago?

explains that it would make sense for the Bengals to turn their backs on Cincinnati and relocate to Chicago. A new stadium is to be built together with the Bears. This would save both teams costs and justify a new construction – thus killing two birds with one stone.

Franchise relocation is not uncommon in the NFL; after all, the Raiders, Chargers and Rams moved to Las Vegas and Los Angeles in recent years.

However, the theory about the Bengals comes out of the blue. Both Cincinnati and Bears fans see it that way – and are clearly criticizing the proposal online.

The NFL is just desperate to ruin the game. Traditions, city pride matter. https://t.co/W9gFoJNI1j

— One Sec Benny (@onesecbenny) April 5, 2025

If your business case involves bringing in a competitor to justify building your new venue, you don’t have much of a business case. https://t.co/kvkTPeL3By

— newballpark (@newballpark) April 5, 2025

Chicago will never have a 2nd NFL team. https://t.co/sUfRIJyEub

— Windy City Pick 6 (@WindyCityPick6) April 5, 2025