Here’s the first big change in Madden NFL 17

EA isn't talking Madden NFL 17 quite yet, but we got our first big change in the form of the relocation of the Rams. Yesterday, it was announced that the Rams will be returning to Los Angeles — 21 years after the team had left for St. Louis.

As reported by ESPN, the Rams move to L.A. is effective immediately, meaning they will open play for the 2016-2017 season in Los Angeles, a move which should be reflected in this year's Madden game (we've reached out to EA Sports for confirmation). It's unclear, however, exactly how EA will handle the Rams' stadium situation in the game. Although the ultimate plan calls for a stadium site located at the old Hollywood Park racetrack in Inglewood, California — about 10 miles from downtown L.A. — the team is expected to play their seven-game home schedule at Los Angeles Memorial Coliseum, which is operated by USC. 

It's also possible this isn't the last move we'll see either. It's reported that the San Diego Chargers or Oakland Raiders could join the Rams in L.A. The Chargers have a yearlong option to join the Rams. If the San Diego franchise declines to move or is unable to negotiate a partnership with the Rams in Inglewood by January 16, 2017, then the Raiders will then have the option to join the Rams in L.A.

The Chargers were also given a second date of March 23, 2016, to decide if they want to move to LA. for the 2016. Should they reach a decision by then, it's possible Madden NFL 17 could see two teams relocated. If they decide to stay in San Diego for the 2016 season, then the January 2017 deadline goes into effect and we'll look ahead to Madden 18.

And, of course, should all of that fail, we could expect the Raiders to potentially find a new home in Madden 18.