The Chicago Bears likely won't ever get to host a Super Bowl in the Windy City, but the team is getting a heck of a consolation prize.
NFL commissioner Roger Goodell and Mayor Rahm Emanuel announced Thursday that the NFL has awarded the 2015 NFL Draft to Chicago.
Ever since the NFL announced that they would be moving the draft from Radio City Music Hall in New York earlier this year, the speculation has been rampant that Chicago would get the event.
Los Angeles was considered another big contender, as was Nashville, but Chicago's status as one of the founding cities of the league and its fervent support of the Bears have clearly borne fruit.
The 3-day event will be held at the Auditorium Theater in Chicago's South Loop from April 30 to May 2, 2015.
Round 1 will be held on April 30, Rounds 2 and 3 will take place May 1, and Rounds 4-7 will take place May 2.
The NFL says the college prospects will walk a red carpet on Michigan Avenue as part of the Round 1 festivities.
A free outdoor fan festival will also be held all three days in Grant Park and Congress Plaza, with interactive exhibits and autograph sessions with current and former players.
The NFL Draft was held in Chicago in 1938, 1942-44, 1951 and 1962-64.
