NFL Uniform Rules Mean the Bears Must Rethink Their Throwbacks

Love them or loathe them, the Chicago Bears Boast one of the most recognizable outfits across the entire NFL. They occasionally showcase impressive vintage alternatives as well. However, among these past styles, there’s a specific retro uniform that the team hasn’t worn much recently. Given the recent updates to the league's uniform rules, now would be an ideal moment for the Bears to reintroduce this classic look.

On Monday during the yearly NFL owner gatherings, NFL insider Jordan Schultz shares that the league plans to modify their uniform rules. Teams will now be allowed to sport alternative or vintage jerseys up to four times each season. This change increases the previous limit of just three occasions annually when they were permitted to showcase distinct looks.

The Bears, similar to every NFL team not called the Kansas City Chiefs They've got several alternative choices they’ve been utilizing across recent years. One option includes an orange alternate jersey introduced in 2020, which comes with an accompanying orange helmet. Another choice is their vintage 1936 white throwback uniforms first used in 2019.

Next up are the retro uniforms from the 1940s that the Bears sported regularly during the 2010s. These straightforward but striking navy jerseys featuring prominent orange letters made several appearances each year at Soldier Field over many years. However, once the team unveiled their 1936 white throwbacks, they retired the 1940s designs, which have not been utilized since 2018. Considering the league’s move toward permitting additional use of alternative uniforms, the Bears ought to think about reintroducing these stunning outfits.

To accommodate the new 1940s-inspired designs, the Bears must exclude one of their current alternates from being used. Despite the NFL increasing the frequency at which alternate uniforms can be showcased, each team remains restricted to only four choices: traditional home, traditional away, an alternative design, and retro throwbacks. Given that the Bears have recently debuted an orange helmet meant to complement their orange jerseys, it appears improbable that this combination will be phased out. Consequently, the 1936 uniform set might end up taking a backseat.

Does wearing a jersey actually improve performance on the field? Scientifically speaking, no. However, it does enhance the image of the player. look Improved, and this is something fans have long requested to witness. Moreover, it’s worth noting that the last time the 1940s uniforms were used, Chicago ended up winning the NFC North division that very season. Additionally, this presents an opportunity for both the Bears and the NFL to generate additional revenue. Undoubtedly, many supporters would be eager to own a Caleb Williams or Rome Odunze jersey featuring those striking orange letters and numerals.

Retro jerseys might not be at the forefront of the Chicago Bears' priorities for the 2025 offseason. However, they've managed to address several key areas so far, including landing one of the best head coaches available and reshaping their offensive line within just a few days. To maintain positive momentum, consider reviving the 1940s retro uniforms for the next season.

The article was initially published on Bears Wire. The NFL's updated uniform rules suggest the Bears need to reconsider their throwback jerseys.