Chaos Outside Soldier Field: Bears Fan Assaults Packers Supporter Before Wild Card Clash

Chicago, Illinois – January 2026 As the Chicago Bears prepare for a do-or-die Wild Card matchup against the Green Bay Packers, the team isn’t just getting ready on the field. On Friday morning, the Bears made an announcement that immediately energized Bears Nation: five locations in and around Soldier Field are slated to distribute the team’s now-iconic “Bears Bomb” to fans before kickoff — limited to the first 1,000 participants. According to the team, the initiative is part of a broader playoff-week effort to ignite the atmosphere and reward fans who have helped transform Soldier Field into one of the most intimidating venues in the NFL this season. What began as a bar-culture phenomenon across Chicago has now been elevated into an official game-day experience. The five designated locations include the South Courtyard Fan Zone, Midway Plaza, the Burnham Harbor entrance, the East Tailgate Zone, and the Bears Fest Hub near Gate 0. Distribution is expected to begin 90 minutes before kickoff and will operate on a first-come, first-served basis for fans age 21 and over, ending once the 1,000-drink limit is reached. Team officials emphasized that the goal is not simply to create a festive pregame environment, but to turn the moments leading up to Bears-Packers into a true communal experience. The Bears Bomb has become a symbol of belief and renewal around the city, and its presence on playoff game day reflects that growing momentum. However, the Bears confirmed that the distribution plan is still awaiting final approval from the NFL and local regulatory authorities, particularly regarding crowd management, alcohol service, and safety protocols on game day. The team expects to issue a final confirmation within 24 to 48 hours before kickoff. “This isn’t just a football game,” a team representative said. “It’s a moment for the city. We want fans to feel like they’re entering this battle alongside the team the moment they arrive at Soldier Field — but everything has to be done the right way.” A matchup with the Packers always carries weight beyond the scoreboard. As the NFL’s oldest rivalry, Bears-Packers games are defined by pride, identity, and citywide emotion. With the stakes now elevated to the postseason, Chicago understands it will take more than 11 players on the field — it will take the full force of Soldier Field. Excitement across the city has reached levels not seen in years. From Wicker Park bars to tailgates along the lakefront, the Bears Bomb has emerged as a cultural rallying point. The team’s effort to integrate it into the playoff atmosphere underscores its intent to make this Wild Card game a citywide event. If the plan receives final clearance, one thing will be clear: against the Packers, Chicago won’t just be ready to play — the city will be ready to rise together.