The Cardinals' State Farm Stadium could be the temporary home of the 49ers. Kirby Lee-USA TODAY Sports

Arizona 'the most likely option' for 49ers home games?

The San Francisco 49ers are being forced to search for a new home for the next three weeks due to COVID-19 protocols outlined this weekend by Santa Clara County that bans all contact sports in professional, collegiate and youth leagues. 

According to NFL Network's Ian Rapoport, State Farm Stadium, home of the Arizona Cardinals, is "the most likely option" for 49ers home games in the coming weeks. It makes sense, too, because the Cardinals and 49ers never play at home on the same day. 

If the 49ers do move to Arizona, they'll likely be forced to set up a bubble environment for the duration of their stay in the state. Seeing as how they could end up in Arizona for the remainder of the season, and not just three weeks, players could be given the opportunity to opt out without any consequences.

Moving to Arizona for a few weeks is the most logistical option for the 49ers. A 14-day quarantine period and strict COVID-19 protocols don't exist in Arizona, which would make it an easy move for the Niners. It's also just a short two-hour flight to Glendale. 

On the other hand, the NFL could always be granted an exception to allow for games and practices to still take place, but it seems unlikely at this point, especially with COVID-19 cases rising across the country and around the league. 

The 49ers have home games scheduled at Levi's Stadium on Dec. 7 against the Buffalo Bills and Dec. 13 against the Washington Football Team. Those games would be played at State Farm Stadium if a deal is made. 

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