With the NFL planning to meet on January 12 and 13 to consider the anticipated relocation applications of the Rams, Raiders, and Chargers, the NFL has given the cities faced with the prospect of losing its team a clear deadline for proposing a stadium solution.

In a letter addressed to each of the three groups trying to strike stadium deals to keep the would-be L.A. teams local, NFL executive V.P. Eric Grubman invites the cities “to provide, in writing, your proposal to the club (including any modifications from your last proposal) for consideration by the Committee [on Los Angeles Opportunities] and membership.” The letter also asks that the proposal include: (1) a detailed outline of all material terms, financial and otherwise; (2) specific details of the sources and uses for project construction; (3) identification of the authority necessary to secure public contributions; and (4) the timing and steps necessary, and remaining risks, if any, for executing the deal on the proposed terms.

The letter, obtained by the St. Louis Post-Dispatch, requests that the proposal be submitted on or before December 30, 2015.

A December 2 ownership meeting resulted in no tangible progress toward a resolution of the L.A. situation. Sooner than later, a potential outcome will emerge. The question is whether at least 24 owners will get behind whatever the best idea may be.