Chicago, Illinois - It's official! Big Ten Commissioner Kevin Warren is leaving college sports to become president and CEO of the NFL's Chicago Bears.

The Bears announced the switch-up on Thursday, as Warren is set to take on the new position in the spring.

"Kevin is a man of integrity, respect and excellence, all of which are critical core values of the Chicago Bears, and we welcome his perspective and diverse thought to lead this storied organization," Bears chairman George H. McCaskey said in a statement.

Warren, who served for three years as commissioner of the Big Ten, will replace outgoing Bears president and CEO Ted Phillips, who announced his intended retirement following the 2022 season last September. Phillips has served as Chicago's president and CEO for the last 23 years.

"It was important to ensure the Bears had the right leader in place before I retired," Phillips shared. "Kevin will do an excellent job of bringing the best out of the great people at Halas Hall and continue the evolution of our proud franchise."

Warren working in the NFL is nothing new for the sports mogul. Prior to his position as Big Ten commissioner, Warren had extensive experience in the NFL, working for the Minnesota Vikings, Detroit Lions, and Los Angeles Rams.

"He [Warren] is a proven leader who has many times stepped outside of his comfort zone to challenge status quo for unconventional growth and prosperity," McCaskey said. "In this role, Warren will serve in the primary leadership position of the franchise to help bring the next Super Bowl championship trophy home to Bears fans."

Breaking barriers within the sports world is also nothing new for Warren.

As the first Black commissioner to oversee a Power five conference, the 59-year-old also became the first Black Chief Operating Officer in NFL history under the Vikings in 2015.

Now helming the Chicago, Warren will become the fifth president and first ever Black president in the Bears' 103-year history.

"I am honored and recognize the responsibility bestowed upon me to lead the Chicago Bears during this exciting and pivotal time for the franchise," Warren said in a statement.

"I look forward to building on the rich tradition that started with George Halas and connecting with the unique and vibrant fan base in Chicago. I join the Chicago Bears with gratitude and drive to carry out and build upon the legacy and spirit of this founding franchise and my predecessors."

Following Warren's Big Ten exit, the conference's council of presidents and chancellors are set to meet on Thursday to discuss their next steps moving forwards in finding a new league commissioner.

"The Council of Presidents and Chancellors (COP/C) for the Big Ten Conference is grateful to Commissioner Kevin Warren for his valuable service to the conference and its member institutions over the past three years," the Big Ten said in a statement. "He has guided the conference with an innovative spirit, a passion for people and exceptional business acumen."

Now, just one question remains: Will the Chicago Bears newest president Kevin Warren lead the franchise to a Super Bowl?