Anyone else's team lead/manager suddenly very cagey about headcount?

Lately, whenever the topic of team growth or even just future projects comes up, my manager gets really evasive. Used to be pretty open about plans, but now it's all 'we're evaluating needs' and 'focused on current priorities.' It feels like a deliberate deflection. Combined with the hiring freeze rumors I've seen others mention, I'm getting a really bad feeling. We haven't had any official word, but this sudden shift in communication feels like a red flag. Just wondering if others are experiencing similar responses from their management at The Hartford. Trying to stay positive, but it's hard when the leadership seems to be shutting down conversations about the future.