Recent high-level meetings between Illinois Gov. JB Pritzker, NFL Commissioner Roger Goodell, state legislative leaders, and Bears minority owner Pat Ryan underscore active negotiations to keep the franchise in Illinois, countering earlier statements emphasizing Hammond, Indiana, as the sole focus. Stadium site selection and financing processes remain unresolved between Arlington Heights and Hammond options, with no finalized relocation timeline. NFL team moves across state lines require extensive due diligence, approvals, and multi-year construction phases that cannot conclude by December 31, 2026, especially given the Bears’ Soldier Field lease extending through 2033. On-field performance, roster health, or recent game results have no bearing on these business decisions. Trader consensus reflects the structural barriers to any rapid interstate departure.