As the Chicago Bears' potential deal with Arlington Heights hits a roadblock, the team on Wednesday hinted at a possible move to Northwest Indiana. Many people laughed when Indiana state legislators passed a bill earlier this year that created a commission to draw professional sports teams to the northwest corner of the state.

With the Bears now poking across state lines for potential stadium sites, Mayor Brandon Johnson is forcefully reasserting his claim: the team’s home is — and should remain — Chicago.

In Whiting, Indiana, the buzz is all about the Bears. A bombshell dropped Wednesday night as Chicago Bears President and CEO Kevin Warren posted a public letter, letting fans know that other stadium sites in Illinois and/or Northwest Indiana are now on the table.

The team says Arlington Heights is still their preferred option, but they need lawmakers to pass a bill allowing them to negotiate a discounted property tax rate.

In 1995, the Chicago Bears threatened to move to northwest Indiana if the team didn’t get money for a new stadium. They’re doing it again.

The Chicago Bears shocked fans last night with a letter saying they’re checking out northwest Indiana for a new stadium.  So how are officials in Illinois and Indiana reacting? And could the team actually leave the state?