Illustration: Brendan Lynch/AxiosThe Chicago Bears are moving forward on a plan to build a new stadium in Hammond, Indiana. Why it matters: This is the strongest signal yet that Chicago's NFL franchise could leave Illinois.What they're saying: "We believe a world-class stadium project in Hammond will transform the region," team leaders said in a statement after the board of directors voted Thursday to advance the project. "It will bring Chicagoland together and deliver new opportunities to its residents and businesses."Context: The Illinois legislature did not pass a proposed stadium tax incentive package in its spring session. The General Assembly will not meet again until November, unless Gov. JB Pritzker calls a special session.Indiana had already passed tax breaks to lure the Bears across the state border. State of play: While Indiana lawmakers are signaling a victory, it's unclear if the Bears are officially committing to a move. Between the lines: The Bears previously expressed similar enthusiasm for Arlington Heights, raising questions about whether Friday's statement makes Indiana the final destination or another negotiating tactic.Zoom in: Illinois leaders stressed that negotiations remain ongoing."Governor Pritzker has always been clear that he wants the Bears to stay in Illinois and still remains open to a sensible solution that protects taxpayers," spokesperson Matt Hill said in a statement."Over the last several years, the Bears have stated their intentions in multiple jurisdictions," Chicago Mayor Brandon Johnson said in a statement. "Until we see shovels in the ground in Hammond, the City will continue to engage in discussions grounded in the interests of our residents.""Illinois remains open to ongoing efforts to secure the Bears," Illinois House Speaker Chris Welch said in a statement. "However, it'll take time to get it right."Meanwhile, Indiana officials celebrated the vote. "Welcome to Indiana!" Gov. Mike Braun said in a statement. "An NFL franchise in Northwest Indiana will be an economic boost to the entire region like we haven't seen before.""The Bears join a long line of companies and residents choosing Indiana to invest, grow and pursue opportunity, and I look forward to many more making that choice," House Speaker Todd Huston said in a statement. The intrigue: NFL teams often play outside their namesake cities. Playing in another state is far less common.The biggest example is MetLife Stadium in East Rutherford, New Jersey, where the New York Giants and Jets play. The Washington Commanders play in Landover, Maryland, but are planning a new stadium in D.C. The bottom line: The Bears are signaling that Indiana is now the preferred path, though a final decision remains unresolved.email (opens in new window)sms (opens in new window)facebook (opens in new window)twitter (opens in new window)linkedin (opens in new window)bluesky (opens in new window)nextdoor (opens in new window)Add Axios on GoogleMore Chicago stories