What Virginia McCaskey's death means for Bears' future

The Bears have long been a family-owned business, and McCaskey's death on Thursday will not change that. George McCaskey, Virginia's son and the grandson of "Papa Bear" Halas, has been the team's chairman since 2011 and will remain in that position for the foreseeable future.

After the conclusion of the 2024 season, George McCaskey made it clear that he would be staying in his current role despite the Bears not posting a winning season since going 12-4 in 2018. That, by the way, was Chicago's first campaign over .500 since going 10-6 in 2012.

While ownership may not change, Virginia McCaskey's death comes during organizational transformation.

In January, the McCaskeys handed Ben Johnson a large contract to become Chicago's head coach. The former Detroit Lions offensive coordinator will take over a team with quarterback Caleb Williams coming off a historic first season. Williams became the first rookie in NFL history to pass for at least 3,500 yards with 20 touchdowns while throwing six or fewer interceptions and rushing for at least 400 yards.

Entering the 2025 campaign, the Bears have the fourth-highest salary cap space in the NFL, per Spotrac. With that and the 10th overall pick in the 2025 draft, the Bears can build more around Williams and change the club's trajectory after a disappointing 5-12 season in 2024.

There is little question that the 2025 campaign in Chicago will be dedicated to the memory of Virginia McCaskey. While her family may stay in control of the club, the best way to honor her legacy will be to stop doing business as usual and find a way to turn the Bears into consistent winners.