NFL Commissioner Roger Goodell announced on Friday that the league, in collaboration with several of its teams, will donate $5 million to aid communities affected by the devastating wildfires ravaging the Los Angeles area.

"The NFL family is committed to working alongside the Los Angeles Chargers and Los Angeles Rams to support their local communities during this time of need," Goodell stated in an official release.

The wildfires have left a trail of destruction across the region, with over 1,000 structures destroyed, thousands of residents displaced, and economic losses mounting. Goodell emphasized the league's solidarity with those impacted:
"We are heartbroken by the devastating losses suffered by so many in the Los Angeles area and inspired by the heroism of first responders and neighbors helping one another," the commissioner remarked.

How the Funds Will Be Allocated

The donation includes contributions from individual teams and owners, such as:

• Minnesota Vikings and the Wilf Family Foundation, pledging $1 million.
• Houston Texans, contributing $1 million.
• Los Angeles Rams and Los Angeles Chargers, coordinating local fund distribution.

The funds will be directed to organizations providing immediate relief to wildfire victims and supporting recovery efforts in the region.

Impact on NFL Operations

The wildfires have also disrupted the league's schedule. The Wild Card Round matchup between the Los Angeles Rams and Minnesota Vikings, originally slated for Monday at SoFi Stadium in Inglewood, has been moved to State Farm Stadium in Glendale, Arizona.

Additionally, the Los Angeles Chargers have restricted outdoor practices due to poor air quality, though their Saturday game against the Houston Texans in Houston remains on schedule.