Shapiro: Eagles' Future Stadium Will Be in Philadelphia
Pennsylvania Gov. Josh Shapiro made a definitive statement Tuesday about the future of the Philadelphia Eagles' stadium, saying it will remain in the city. Shapiro attended the team's open practice at Lincoln Financial Field, where he signed autographs and spoke with reporters about the ongoing stadium discussions.
"Here's what I can tell you for sure: It's going to be in the city of Philadelphia," Shapiro said. "We'll work with the Eagles once they determine what it is they're interested in doing. But I appreciate the thoughtful and deliberative approach that they've taken to this process."
When asked about the possibility of a domed stadium in Philadelphia, Shapiro deferred to the team's internal process, noting that the Eagles will come to talk to the state once they are done with their evaluation.
The comments come as the Eagles face a key decision about their home. The lease for Lincoln Financial Field expires in 2032, and owner Jeffrey Lurie has acknowledged the possibility of building a new stadium. Lurie has even entertained the idea of moving the team out of South Philadelphia, but Shapiro's remarks suggest that such a scenario is unlikely.
Lurie, speaking at the NFL owners meetings in April, said the team has begun "exploratory research" on a new or renovated stadium. He indicated that the goal is to have a more "definitive approach" to the stadium plans in a year or two. When asked about the possibility of playing outside the city, Lurie said, "Whatever's best for the fans. I mean, we don't really go on a geographical basis. It's whatever's best for the fans."
Lincoln Financial Field, which opened in 2003, is heading into its 24th season as the home of the two-time Super Bowl champions. The stadium remains in good condition and has undergone upgrades and renovations over the past two decades. The team could also look to renovate or replace the Jefferson Health Training Complex, which opened in 2001.
Shapiro, who attended each of the last two Eagles Super Bowl appearances, expressed optimism about the team's future on the field. He chatted with Eagles general manager Howie Roseman, whom he called "the best GM in all of sports."
"I think there's a lot of hope, there's a lot of optimism, a lot of excitement after, obviously, a down year last year," Shapiro said. "It didn't end how we wanted. Folks are pumped up. I think there's something unique about this city that 50,000 people came out to watch a practice. They're fired up and so am I."
The event also raised about $800,000 for the Eagles Autism Foundation, according to Shapiro, who praised owner Jeffrey Lurie's efforts.
"It's an amazing thing Jeffrey has done for this city and the example he's set for the entire country," Shapiro said.
Shapiro's comments echo what he told The Inquirer's Jeff McLane on the unCovering the Birds podcast in April. Last year, the Eagles sent surveys to season-ticket holders about stadium prospects, and Lurie has made public statements indicating all options are on the table.
Shapiro, who is up for reelection in November and is term-limited, reiterated his commitment to keeping the Eagles in Philadelphia. As he signed autographs, he joked about the value of a Jalen Hurts jersey, saying, "I think I was decreasing the value of their Jalen Hurts jersey."