NFL pays tribute to longtime Bears owner Virginia McCaskey during Super Bowl

The 2025 Super Bowl wasn’t just a celebration of the pinnacle of American football talent, but also an opportunity to recognize the legacy and contributions of one of the most influential figures in the history of the NFL — Virginia McCaskey, the longtime owner of the Chicago Bears. In a league where ownership often gets overshadowed by the players and coaches, McCaskey has remained a constant, steady force in one of the NFL’s most storied franchises. Her tribute during the Super Bowl served as a moment of reflection, honoring a woman whose influence has left an indelible mark on both the Bears and the NFL as a whole.

Virginia McCaskey: A Legacy Built on Family and Football

Virginia Halas McCaskey, born in 1923, is the daughter of George Halas, one of the NFL’s founding fathers and the legendary coach who led the Chicago Bears for decades. Her connection to the sport is rooted deeply in family and tradition, and her role as the matriarch of the Bears organization has been one of stewardship and dedication. When her father passed away in 1983, McCaskey inherited the team, becoming the first female owner of the Chicago Bears. Under her guidance, the team has seen several highs and lows, but it has remained a key figure in the NFL.

Virginia McCaskey’s leadership has been marked by her commitment to upholding the values instilled in the Bears by her father. Those values of perseverance, community, and football excellence have remained integral to the Bears’ identity, even as the league has evolved. McCaskey has ensured that the Bears not only maintain their rich history but also strive for future success, even in the face of challenges. Her efforts to balance tradition with modernization have been pivotal in keeping the Bears relevant in today’s NFL.

A Moment for Reflection

The Super Bowl is the NFL’s grandest stage, a time for the league to celebrate the culmination of an entire season of hard work, determination, and skill. Yet, amidst the fireworks, the highlight reels, and the fast-paced action of the game itself, it is also an occasion to acknowledge those whose contributions go beyond the field. This year, the NFL chose to honor McCaskey for her decades of dedication to the league, particularly in how she’s continued her father’s legacy while also bringing her unique influence as a female leader in a male-dominated sport.

During the Super Bowl festivities, a special tribute video aired, showcasing key moments from McCaskey’s journey as the owner of the Bears. The video highlighted her efforts in maintaining the team’s legacy while being a strong advocate for the growth of women in sports. It also touched upon McCaskey’s leadership style — one defined by humility, patience, and an unwavering commitment to the community of Chicago and the history of the team.

NFL Commissioner Roger Goodell was among those to publicly express admiration for McCaskey’s remarkable contributions. “Virginia McCaskey’s leadership has been a testament to her love for the game, her family, and her team,” Goodell said in a statement. “She represents the best of what the NFL stands for: dedication, loyalty, and a deep understanding of the importance of community. The NFL is proud to celebrate her incredible legacy.”

For McCaskey, this tribute was not about personal recognition but about honoring the history of the Bears and the league as a whole. “I’ve always believed in the importance of the team, the players, and the fans,” McCaskey said during an interview prior to the tribute. “Football is a team sport, and the Bears have always been a family, both on and off the field. I’m simply here to do my part in making sure that legacy endures.”

The Impact of Virginia McCaskey on the Bears

McCaskey’s tenure as the Bears’ owner has been one of both triumph and challenge. While the team has experienced its share of difficult seasons, McCaskey’s ownership has ensured that the Bears have remained a beloved institution in the city of Chicago and across the NFL. She is credited with maintaining a strong connection between the Bears and their fans, emphasizing the importance of tradition while being open to the evolving dynamics of the sport.

Under her ownership, the Bears have experienced some notable successes. Perhaps the most iconic moment of McCaskey’s tenure came in 1985, when the Bears, under the leadership of Coach Mike Ditka, dominated the NFL and won Super Bowl XX in a memorable season. Though McCaskey was not directly involved in the day-to-day operations of the team at that time, her leadership provided the foundation for the Bears’ success. Her father’s legacy lived on in the team’s victories, and McCaskey was proud to see the fruits of the Halas family’s long-standing commitment to the game.

However, McCaskey’s reign has also seen more challenging seasons. The Bears have not been able to replicate the same level of success that they enjoyed in the 1980s, and in recent years, they have struggled to consistently compete for playoff spots. Yet, McCaskey has remained steadfast, believing in the potential for long-term success rather than focusing solely on immediate results. Her focus has always been on building a team that reflects the values of hard work, respect, and perseverance that her father instilled in the franchise.

One of McCaskey’s most notable contributions has been her support for women in football. She has worked tirelessly to ensure that the Bears, and the NFL as a whole, continue to provide opportunities for women both on the field and in the front office. She was an early advocate for women’s involvement in team ownership and leadership, and her efforts have paved the way for other women to follow in her footsteps.

A Champion of the Community

In addition to her leadership within the Bears organization, Virginia McCaskey has been a key figure in the Chicago community. Her dedication to local charities and the people of Chicago has further cemented her place as a beloved figure in the city. McCaskey has consistently used her platform to support local causes, particularly those focused on youth sports and community development. The Bears, under her guidance, have been known for their outreach programs, which seek to improve the lives of Chicago’s underserved communities.

Her commitment to giving back to the community mirrors the values her father upheld throughout his tenure as owner. George Halas was famously known for his dedication to the people of Chicago, and McCaskey has maintained that same sense of duty. She has continually emphasized that the Bears are not just a football team but an integral part of the fabric of Chicago.

A New Era

As Virginia McCaskey continues to age, the future of the Bears will eventually pass to the next generation of the Halas-McCaskey family. However, McCaskey’s influence on the franchise is undeniable, and her legacy will likely shape the team for years to come. The tribute during Super Bowl LVII served as a reminder of her unique place in the NFL and her enduring impact on the Bears.

While the Bears may not have claimed another Super Bowl title during her tenure, McCaskey’s leadership has ensured that the team remains a cornerstone of the NFL. Her commitment to maintaining the history of the Bears, while also embracing the future of the league, has helped keep the team relevant in an ever-changing sports landscape. She may not always be in the spotlight, but her quiet strength has been the backbone of the Bears’ sustained presence in the NFL.