weekly wage of $50. After Halas assumed control of the Staley football club, Sternaman was the first player to sign with the club; the two would later become co-owners of the Bears. The Staleys were founding members of the National Football League (then known as the American Professional Football Association) in . After moving to Chicago the following year, they became the Chicago Bears in 1922. In 2003, the Bears introduced Staley Da Bear as their mascot, with the name being a tribute to A. E. Staley. Notable players Chuck Dressen, Quarterback & Halfback Jake Lanum, Halfback & Defensive Back Jake Mintun, Center, Middle Guard & Kicker “Red” May, Guard Walt Veach, Halfback Sid Gepford, Halfback & Blocking Back (from Millikin) Roy Adkins, Guard (from Millikin) References External links 1919 Decatur Staleys season Illinois 200: How the Decatur Staleys became the Chicago Bears Chicago Bears seasons Chicago Bears Decat