The NFL is in a billion-dollar dispute with the city of St. Louis over the Rams’ move to Los Angeles. In the process, rumours persist that the big city from Missouri could wrestle an expansion team.

Munich – Back in 2016, the St. Louis Rams moved to sunny California’s Los Angeles to plug the big NFL hole in the global metropolis before the San Diego Chargers.

To this day, Missouri’s anger remains unquenched, with a legal battle still ongoing that could cost the league billions. The city is trying to get compensation for “wasted money” spent to dissuade Rams owner Stan Kroenke from his plan and not lose the team. Mississippi is also seen as responsible for parts of the increased value.

Since the NFL’s chances in a court case are probably not good and the legal costs are immensely high, a settlement with the city is discussed again and again – a court judgement wants to be avoided.

Part of a settlement could be to accommodate a league expansion team in the city of St. Louis. NBC Sports” reports on corresponding rumours and discussions from league circles.

NFL: Expansion to 34 teams could be possible

With a possible timetable of five to 15 years, the NFL would certainly succeed in finding a second city for a 34th NFL team to keep the Football League balanced between the AFC and NFC.

It remains to be seen if and when the NFL will admit its poor chances before a trial and agree to a settlement that could fundamentally change the league. Stan Kroenke also has a big role to play in this.

He has already admitted to wanting to compensate the league and all other owners in the event of a verdict. However, “NBC Sports” speculates that he would not be able to keep this promise in the event of a really drastic penalty and that the other owners would then agree to the settlement.