Photo by Robin Alam/Icon Sportswire via Getty Images
I hear the desert is nice this time of year. It’s going to have to do for the 49ers, who, thanks to a Saturday edict from Santa Clara County, are no longer permitted to practice or play at home through at least December 21.
The team will relocate, at least for the time being, to Arizona. They’ll host their Week 13 and 14 games against the Buffalo Bills and Washington Football Team there, and after a week in Dallas, will return to face the Cardinals in the penultimate week of the regular season. There is no word, yet, as to where the team will practice.
The Cardinals’ last game of the season is on the road against Los Angeles, so there would be an opening, if needed, for the 49ers’ final regular season game, a home matchup against the Seattle Seahawks.
The following if from the team:
“The San Francisco 49ers have come to an agreement with the National Football League and Arizona Cardinals which allows the 49ers to host their Weeks 13 and 14 home games against the Buffalo Bills and Washington Football Team at State Farm Stadium in Arizona.
“The Cardinals organization, State Farm Stadium and League officials have been supportive and accommodating as we work through the many logistical issues involved in relocating NFL games.
“Information regarding the 49ers future practice arrangements will be shared at the appropriate time.”
Team CEO Jed York thanked Cardinals owner Michael Bidwill for the assist.
Thank you Michael Bidwell and the @AZCardinals for all of your help. Very appreciative of Arizona welcoming us during these unprecedented times https://t.co/gQBHIkqr0W
— Jed York (@JedYork) November 30, 2020
According to York, San Diego also offered to host the 49ers.
I also want to thank @SDMayorsOffice for immediately reaching out to see if San Diego could help @49ers during our search for a home. While we wish we could keep our players at / close to home with their families during the holidays, that is currently not viable. #OneDayAtATime
— Jed York (@JedYork) November 30, 2020