Illinois has talent. Does it have the capital to keep it?

[upbeat jingle] High-stakes stadium talks for the Chicago Bears reached a critical turning point Thursday as top NFL power players stepped directly into negotiations.

NFL Commissioner Roger Goodell and Bears minority owner Pat Ryan met behind closed doors with Illinois Governor J.B. Pritzker and key legislative leaders.

Pritzker's office called the discussion productive, emphasizing a shared goal, keeping the Bears in Illinois while protecting taxpayers.

An NFL spokesman echoed that optimism but warned that time is running out, stating that timely action is essential for a long-term stadium solution.

The pressure is on Springfield after the General Assembly adjourned in May without passing a deal.

The Bears are eyeing the three hundred and twenty-six acre former Arlington Park site in suburban Arlington Heights, where they're seeking property tax breaks and infrastructure support.

Arlington Heights Mayor Jim Tunalia said today he was encouraged by the state's high-level talks.

However, Illinois is facing aggressive competition from across the state line.

Indiana lawmakers have already passed legislation creating a stadium authority authorized to issue up to one billion dollars in public bonds.

Hammond Mayor Tom McDermott says his city remains very much in the running for a new stadium near Wolf Lake.

McDermott confirmed he spoke with Bears officials just yesterday morning, noting the team is actively working on Hammond plans every day.

While initial estimates expected a location decision by early summer, McDermott says the timeline is now entirely in the team's hands as they weigh a multi-billion dollar investment.

For now, Illinois leaders maintain the ball is in the Bears' court to outline their preferred path forward before lawmakers bring a fresh bill to a vote.