The Bears confirmed on Thursday that they will remain in the limelight throughout the summer and that they will appear on HBO’s “Hard Knocks” during training camp.

Since 2001, “Hard Knocks,” which tracks NFL teams during training camp, has never included the Bears. In March, during league meetings, Chairman George McCaskey reiterated his long-standing opposition to the Bears being given access to HBO while they get ready for the season opener.

“We’re told there is some interest in other teams being on the program and we welcome that interest,” McCaskey stated.

Nevertheless, HBO and NFL Films found the Bears to be an easy decision because of the allure of quarterback Caleb Williams, the first overall pick in the draft, and a young squad emerging off a 7-10 record in 2023.

Since the Cleveland Browns’ Baker Mayfield was drafted No. 1 overall in 2018, the Bears became the first team to be chosen for “Hard Knocks” with a rookie quarterback.

“We are honored to feature such an iconic NFL franchise on ‘Hard Knocks,'”  stated Shannon Furman, senior director of NFL Films and supervising producer. “The Chicago Bears have a talented roster, coaching staff and front office all determined to match the expectations of a hungry fan base. We are thankful to the entire organization for opening their doors to us for what is sure to be an exciting training camp this summer.”

Before facing the Houston Texans in the Hall of Fame game on August 1 in Canton, Ohio, the Bears will be the first team to report to training camp in late July. On August 6 at 9 p.m. ET, “Hard Knocks” will premiere.

“The 2024 training camp will be big for us in preparation for achieving our season goals, and we look forward to bringing the fans at home along for the journey,” Ryan Poles, Chicago’s general manager, stated.