The Chicago Bears are entering the 2025 NFL season with a renewed sense of purpose, blending fresh leadership on the sidelines with deep respect for the franchise’s storied history. New head coach Ben Johnson takes the helm, tasked with guiding second-year quarterback Caleb Williams, the former No. 1 overall pick, toward the highly anticipated “second-year leap.”
Remembering Virginia Halas McCaskey
This season also marks a poignant moment in Bears history—the first without longtime owner Virginia Halas McCaskey, who passed away in February 2025. As the daughter of Bears founder George Halas, McCaskey was a direct link to the NFL’s earliest days and the league’s original charter franchise. Her decades of leadership helped preserve the team’s traditions while guiding it through modern NFL changes.
To honor her legacy, the Bears will wear bright orange “VHM” patches on their jerseys throughout the 2025 season. The initials represent her name—Virginia Halas McCaskey—with “Halas” paying tribute to her father’s historic role in building both the team and the league.
The McCaskey Family Continues Ownership
Following McCaskey’s passing, the Bears’ ownership remains firmly within the family. Her son George McCaskey, who has served as team chairman since 2011, continues as the franchise’s owner. The McCaskey family has publicly stated its intention to maintain control of the organization for the foreseeable future.
Looking Ahead in 2025
With a promising young quarterback, an innovative new coach, and a legacy to uphold, the 2025 Chicago Bears are not only chasing playoff aspirations but also honoring the values and history that shaped the franchise. The “VHM” patches will serve as a season-long reminder of the team’s roots—and its vision for the future.