NFL bans purses, seat cushions, coolers from games in new security measure

Forget about bringing your big purse or backpack -- or even a cooler -- to NFL games this season. They'll all be banned, along with seat cushions and camera bags, at all NFL stadiums beginning with preseason games.

In a press release Thursday, the NFL Committee on Stadium Security said to a provide a "safer environment" and to "expedite fan entry," NFL teams will implement a policy that will limit the size and types of bags that can be brought into stadiums.

Prohibited items include purses larger than a clutch bag, coolers, briefcases, backpacks, fanny packs, seat cushions, cinch bags or camera bags.

Game-goers are allowed to bring in bags that are clear plastic, vinyl or PVC and do not exceed 12'' x 6'' x 12''.  One-gallon clear plastic freezer bags are also allowed.  NFLShop.com and club merchandise outlets will be selling official NFL team logo clear plastic tote bags.

“Our fans deserve to be in a safe and secure environment,” NFL vice president and chief security officer Jeffrey Miller said in a statement. “Public safety is our top priority. This will make the job of checking items much more efficient and effective. We will be able to deliver a better and quicker experience at the gates and also provide a safer environment. We appreciate our fans’ cooperation.”

The statement said that stadiums will establish a secondary perimeter around the stadium where security will check for prohibited items.

"This establishes a protected buffer area for fans in plaza-level areas and at the queues for stadium entry," it said. "Any prohibited bag inside the second perimeter will be highly visible and more quickly resolved."

Fans with bags that do not meet the criteria will be turned away from the stadium. The committee is encouraging stadiums to provide temporary storage facilities for banned items well outside the bag-restricted area.