Eagles ban purses, backpacks, cushions, more at Lincoln Financial Field

Forget your fannypacks or things that cushion your fanny.

The Philadelphia Eagles have announced a new security policy instituted by the NFL that bans purses, backpacks and other items from Lincoln Financial Field - a move no doubt ushered along by the terror attacks in Boston.

The ban, promoted by the NFL Committee on Stadium Security, starts with this summer's open practices starting in July, as well as all pre-season games.

Now, the size and type of bags allowed in the stadium are limited by size.

No longer allowed are: purses larger than a clutch bag, coolers, briefcases, backpacks, fanny packs, cinch bags, luggage of any kind, seat cushions, computer bags and camera bags or any bag larger than the permissible size.

A press release encourages fans to limit the number of things they bring.

Allowable are:

• Clear plastic, vinyl or PVC bags that aren't bigger than 12-inches by six-inches by 12-inches.

• One-gallon clear plastic freezer bags (Ziploc bags or similar type clear bags).

• Small clutch purses the size of a hand, with or without a handle or strap.

• Medically necessary items - but be prepared to have them inspected.

"Fan safety is and has always been the number one priority for us," said Eagles President Don Smolenski. "We'll be communicating more information to our fans over the next few weeks to make sure that they are well-informed about this league-wide policy that is aimed at enhancing public safety while also allowing them to enter the stadium in a timely manner."

The NFL said that the new policy was not designed with the purpose of limiting what fans can bring into stadiums.  Rather, it was targeted to restricting certain types of containers.

Any fans carrying bags that don't meet the criteria will be turned away from the stadium before they reach the gates, according to the NFL policy.  Stadiums are also being asked to provide a place for fans to temporarily check a bag.

The 'clutch' issue has resonated with women upset with the ban. The Eagles say there isn't any specific dimension for a clutch that would exceed the maximum allowable size.