NFL Approves 47-Player Rosters

National Football League owners voted to increase rosters to 47 players and approved the conditional sale of the New England Patriots to Reebok International Chairman Paul Fireman before adjourning their annual spring meeting Wednesday in Miami Beach.

Representatives of the league’s 28 teams also authorized NFL officials to renegotiate a five-year contract with the sporting goods company that has supplied the official game ball since 1941. In addition, the use of electronic whistles to improve the league’s instant replay system could begin as early as next season.

The decision on roster limits was described as a “last-ditch compromise” and will allow teams to dress 45 players for games and maintain a two-man inactive list.

The owners gave unanimous approval to the conditional sale of the Patriots, pending Fireman’s ability to reach an agreement on the purchase of financially troubled Sullivan Stadium.

Fireman, who would own 51% of the Patriots, and Philadelphia businessman Fran Murray reportedly will pay $67 million for the Patriots and $18 million for the stadium owned by the team’s current owners, the Sullivan family.

The Sullivans reportedly face debts totaling $52.6 million on the stadium and more than $120 million as a family.