Two-team NFL Dispute Could End in Mediation
Monday, October, 12, 2015
Two NFL teams, the Rams and the Chargers, could be headed to mediation to resolve the dispute between them. The Rams, currently playing in St. Louis, are eyeing a new location. Not surprisingly, the Chargers and Raiders, teams already playing in southern California, are not on board with the relocation.
Los Angeles has not had a team for nearly two decades, but many believe that drought is about to end. Owners could vote on whether LA will get a team and which team could move there as early as January, but many in the NFL are against the decision coming down to a vote because it would pit owners against one another. Those against a vote hope that mediation could help the Chargers and the Rams come to a decision on their own.
Despite confidence a decision could come by early next year, there is no guarantee. Relocation for any options, which means negotiations could be complicated, especially those that involve the Chargers.
The Raiders have a stake in the game, too, but are considered to be a “tag-along.” Most league officials agree there will never be a decent stadium option in Oakland. Raiders Owner Mark David reiterated he is happy and he’s confident everything will work out in the long run.
In the meantime, four cities and three fan bases wait to see how they will be affected and whether or not they will lose or gain a team.