The Chicago Bears' long-term lease at Soldier Field through 2033 creates a major barrier to any departure from Illinois by December 31, as early exit penalties remain manageable but the team has no immediate need to relocate home games. Ongoing due diligence on the Hammond, Indiana site selected in June 2026, combined with continued evaluation of the Arlington Heights option and stalled legislative incentives, points to extended negotiations rather than rapid movement. Stadium construction timelines for a new enclosed facility typically span multiple years, and the franchise's focus on securing infrastructure funding and tax certainty further supports trader consensus that operational or playing-site changes will not occur before year-end. On-field roster developments or recent form have minimal bearing on this political and logistical process.