City of Oakland files federal lawsuit vs. Raiders, NFL

The City of Oakland filed a federal lawsuit against the National Football League and the Oakland Raiders on Tuesday regarding the team's upcoming relocation to Las Vegas, according to ESPN's Paul Gutierrez.

The Raiders don't have a lease for the 2019 season as the franchise awaits the completion of a stadium in Las Vegas, where they will eventually move for the 2020 campaign. Although the Raiders were originally open to playing in Oakland until the Las Vegas venue is ready, the lawsuit further clouds where the team will play next season.

The City contends the Raiders were approved to move to Las Vegas illegally and the impending relocation has caused severe damages to the city's residents and taxpayers.

"The Raiders' illegal move lines the pockets of NFL owners and sticks Oakland, its residents, taxpayers and dedicated fans with the bill," Oakland city attorney Barbara J. Parker said in a release. "The purpose of this lawsuit is to hold the defendants accountable and help to compensate Oakland for the damages the defendants' unlawful actions have caused and will cause to the people of Oakland."

UNLV's Sam Boyd Stadium has been mentioned among the potential options if the Raiders are unable to reach an agreement to play the 2019 season in Oakland.

Raiders owner Mark Davis declined to comment on ESPN's story.

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