Chargers exonerated in sticky towel incident

SAN DIEGO (CNS) – The Chargers didn't break any rules by having towels
containing an adhesive substance on the sidelines during last month's
nationally televised loss to Denver, but the team will be fined $20,000 for the
actions of employees, the National Football League announced Wednesday.

The NFL advised all teams that it will temporarily prohibit the use of
towels containing adhesive substances, and any other sticky products, until
their effect on competition can be reviewed.

Regarding the fine, the NFL said team staff members are obligated to
cooperate with game officials' attempts to protect “the integrity and
competitive fairness” of contests.

“As a result of the failure of club staff to follow the directive of a
game official to immediately surrender the towels when directed to do so, and
to attempt to conceal the towels, the Chargers have been fined $20,000,” the
league statement said.

The Chargers said they will appeal the fine because the employee was
unaware the official was trying to get his attention. Once he realized the
official was calling him, the staff member cooperated, according to the team.

The use of Stickum or other adhesive substances has been banned by the
league since 1981. Head coach Norv Turner said last month that a lot of NFL
teams use the type of towel in question to dry off balls, gloves and arms.