NFL Rumors: San Diego Chargers-to-L.A. Rumors Are Just That

In recent news, the Los Angeles NFL stadium plan has made many steps toward becoming a reality. The Los Angeles City Council unanimously passed a finance agreement with Anschutz Entertainment Group. With this news comes more speculation as to which current franchise might leave for L.A.

Back in San Diego, the Spanos family has been trying for about a decade to find a site for a new stadium. If Spanos wanted out of San Diego, he would have left when rumors about a stadium in L.A. began a few years ago. Bolts fans are starting to worry, but for no reason. Alex Spanos has yet to discuss a move to Los Angeles.

Currently, the Chargers have a site that could change the image of San Diego forever. Mayor Jerry Sanders, along with the San Diego Chargers, has constructed an idea of a sports and entertainment complex in the heart of "America's Finest City."

With Petco Park already there, San Diego would add a new Chargers stadium and an expanded convention center near the Gaslamp Quarter. Other buildings and complexes could be added to this thought once a plan has been drawn up.

The downtown site has many advantages. For one, it has support of the Mayor and many other leaders. It also comes with transportation provided by the MTS. Parking is also in the area. This site has everything in its favor.

Also, the Spanos family will not abandon this project now. They have stayed too long in San Diego to leave now that a site has been found with this much going for it. A new stadium could bring countless Super Bowls to San Diego. This would mean everything to the economy of our city.

Most who don't support a new Chargers stadium also don't support a move to L.A. Many fans would like to see a new stadium financed privately.

A new stadium for the Bolts could cost up to $1 billion. No cost has been determined because a design and plan has yet to be drawn up. However, a third of the cost should come from the Spanoses themselves.

A loan from the NFL could give the city up to $300 million, and a naming-rights deal could give San Diego $100 million to $300 million. As to the exact amount, none one is sure. Those figures are just estimates and could prove to be right or wrong.

The Chargers could also use personal seat licenses to generate revenue faster, in order to help foot the bill.

As of now, I do not foresee an announcement saying the Chargers will play ball in Los Angeles. In fact, the Oakland Raiders may beat the Bolts to it. The Raiders are in some stadium talks with the 49ers, but according to Oakland councilwoman Rebecca Kaplan, "Santa Clara is nowhere near a done deal."

Rumors will continue, but San Diego still should take the stadium deal in L.A. seriously. They are making ground, while San Diego is standing still. It is important that we keep focused in the stadium hunt and find a solution that benefits the city, along with the team.