The Chicago Bears hold the title of the oldest continuously operating NFL franchise. Founded in 1919 as the Decatur Staleys and later moving to Chicago, the team has competed in the league longer than any other current member.
This consistency across more than a century of professional football makes the organization a central reference point when discussing the history and evolution of the modern NFL.
| Franchise | Original Name & Year | City of Origin | Continuity Status |
|---|---|---|---|
| Chicago Bears | Decatur Staleys (1919) | Decatur, Illinois | Continuous operation, NFL 1920 |
| Arizona Cardinals | Morgan Athletic Club (1898) | Chicago, Illinois | Continuous lineage, joined NFL 1920 |
| Green Bay Packers | Acme Packers (1919) | Green Bay, Wisconsin | Continuous operation, NFL 1921 |
| New York Giants | New York Giants (1925) | New York, New York | Continuous operation, NFL 1925 |
Early History of the Decatur Staleys
The team that would become the Chicago Bears began as the Decatur Staleys, a semi-professional club organized by the A. E. Staley Manufacturing Company. George Halas joined the club in 1919 as player and coach, setting the foundation for what would become a professional dynasty.
In 1920, the Staleys agreed to move to Chicago and join the newly formed American Professional Football Association, the league that would later rename itself the National Football League. This relocation marked the beginning of the franchise’s enduring presence in major league football.
Relocation to Chicago and Name Changes
Upon moving to Chicago, the team operated as the Staleys for two seasons before Halas decided to establish a distinct identity. In 1922, the club became officially known as the Chicago Bears, a name inspired by the city’s major league baseball team, the Cubs.
The Bears played early home games at Cubs Park, benefiting from the established baseball venue while building a separate football brand. This period solidified the franchise’s market position and long-term stability within the league.
Historic Rivalries and League Influence
The Bears quickly developed intense rivalries, most notably with the Green Bay Packers and later the Detroit Lions and Minnesota Vikings. These matchups drew large crowds and helped define the early competitive landscape of the NFL.
Under Halas’s ownership, the team emphasized discipline, innovation, and scouting, establishing a culture that influenced league rules, training methods, and front office operations for generations. The franchise became a model for professional football business structure.
Modern Era and Enduring Legacy
Today, the Chicago Bears remain one of the most recognized brands in the NFL, with a fan base that spans multiple generations. The team’s commitment to community engagement, player development, and competitive excellence continues to honor its foundational principles.
Although on-field success has fluctuated, the Bears’ historical role as the oldest franchise provides a consistent narrative thread that connects every era of the league.
Key Takeaways for Fans
- The Chicago Bears trace their origin to 1919 as the Decatur Staleys.
- They are the oldest continuously operating franchise in the NFL.
- Name changes and a move to Chicago shaped the team’s modern identity.
- Historic rivalries and innovative leadership defined their early influence.
- The Bears’ legacy remains a cornerstone of NFL history and culture.
FAQ
Reader questions
Which team is the oldest in the NFL?
The Chicago Bears, originally founded as the Decatur Staleys in 1919, are the oldest continuously operating franchise in the NFL.
Why is the Bears franchise considered the oldest?
The Bears have operated continuously since 1919 and joined the NFL in 1920, maintaining the same city connection and organizational identity longer than any other team.
Do older franchises exist if you include folded teams?
While some earlier clubs existed, the Bears are the oldest franchise that has never ceased operations and has remained in the same league structure for over a century.
How does the Bears’ history compare to other early teams?
Compared to the Green Bay Packers and New York Giants, the Bears share a similar founding era, but their continuous operation from the same city gives them the edge in longevity claims.