The Bears Say Indiana Is the Focus. So Why Are Illinois Talks Still Happening?

The Chicago Bears are continuing high-level communication with Illinois officials despite publicly stating that Hammond, Indiana, is their sole focus for a new stadium. Newly released public records show that Bears Chief Operating Officer Karen Murphy spoke with Illinois Deputy Governor Andy Manar in August 2026, just one week after Bears President Kevin Warren emphasized the Indiana plans.

During the August 20 discussion, Bears minority owner and board member Pat Ryan was also added to the call. While the team previously described its meetings with Illinois officials as occasional, these records indicate that discussions regarding infrastructure and stadium development remain active behind the scenes.