NFL owners are weighing the idea of making it easier for 3-D printers to be used in trade shows and other events, a source with knowledge of the deliberations told NFL Media Insider Ian Rapoport on Tuesday.
The move could help spur business growth, and could ultimately help create jobs, the source said.
The NFLPA is still weighing the issue, but it is expected to make its position clear to owners in the next few weeks.
The NFL has not yet taken any formal position on the matter, the person said.
While the NFLPA does not support the creation of credit union-like systems, the union is not opposed to the idea.
It is an issue that has been discussed with some owners for a while, said a source close to the union.
The union wants to be heard on the issue.
But it is unclear what would happen if the NFL takes the position that it will allow the use of 3-d printers at events, such as the Super Bowl, or that it would allow them to be brought to games and events.
There are already a handful of high-profile 3-moulded sports arenas built, and the league is expected, for example, to allow its stadiums to be 3-Molded in a way that could reduce the amount of material required to create a new stadium.
That would help keep costs down.
The idea has gained traction with the NFL, where some owners are already considering allowing 3-mm-tall (0.3-inch) printed materials at their stadiums.
That could be part of a broader push for more 3-dimensional technology to be part and parcel of the league.
The league has not publicly responded to a request for comment.
