As wildfires wreak havoc across the greater Los Angeles area, the NFL is taking proactive measures to ensure safety while keeping Monday night’s game between the NFC West champion Rams and the Minnesota Vikings on track. With SoFi Stadium in Inglewood sitting close to the affected areas, contingency plans are already in place if relocation becomes necessary.
The league is committed to prioritizing the safety of the Los Angeles community and applauds the efforts of first responders battling the flames. In a statement released Wednesday night, the NFL expressed gratitude to those on the front lines and extended condolences to the victims of the fires. “We continue to prepare to play the Vikings – Rams game as scheduled at SoFi Stadium,” the statement said, adding that if a change of location is required, State Farm Stadium in Glendale, AZ, is ready to host.
The NFL remains vigilant, closely monitoring the situation and staying in touch with public officials, both teams, and the NFL Players Association to make informed decisions as the situation evolves.
Rams players have taken to social media to show their support for those affected. Standout wide receiver Cooper Kupp shared a heartfelt message on X, acknowledging the courageous work of firefighters and first responders during these difficult times.
This is not unfamiliar territory for the NFL. Back in October 2003, wildfires forced a Monday night game between the San Diego Chargers and Miami Dolphins to relocate to Tempe, Arizona. The Chargers, who now call Los Angeles home after leaving San Diego in 2017, lost that game 26-10.
As the Chargers get ready for their wild-card showdown with the AFC South champion Houston Texans this Saturday, the possibility of further disruption looms over the team. It’s another chapter in the NFL’s ongoing story of triumphing over adversity while maintaining safety as its guiding principle.
