NFL Players Advocate for Grass Fields Post-World Cup

With the conclusion of the World Cup, NFL players are increasingly vocal about their preference for grass fields over artificial turf. In the United States, out of the 11 World Cup venues, seven were NFL stadiums with artificial surfaces. However, FIFA mandates grass fields for its games, sparking discussions among NFL players.

The NFL Players Association (NFLPA) has highlighted this issue by humorously pointing out the use of ‘green carpet’ for soccer, while players have initiated a social media campaign highlighting their safety as “#WorthTheCost.”

Saquon Barkley is one of the players expressing this sentiment. In an interview with Fox News Digital, Barkley questioned the logic of not adopting grass fields for NFL games, especially when they have been made available for soccer events. Although he admits limited knowledge on injury comparisons between grass and turf, his personal preference aligns with grass.

“I do prefer grass. I think the majority of players prefer grass. And I will say this – if the numbers show that playing on grass versus turf is better for us, then I think that’s more than enough,” Barkley stated.

Yet, Barkley’s past injuries occurred on grass, including a torn ACL. Despite these incidents, he credits his productive season of achieving 2,000 yards to playing on grass fields for the Philadelphia Eagles.

Half of the NFL stadiums currently use artificial turf. Despite the cost-effectiveness and maintenance benefits of turf, the NFLPA’s Executive Director, Lloyd Howell, shares that 92% of players favor grass surfaces.

New field standards were announced, requiring teams to use approved NFL fields by the 2026 season. Both grass and turf fields must comply, but there is no mandate for natural grass.

Addressing player concerns, Dr. Allen Sills, the league’s chief medical officer, reported no significant injury differences between grass and turf. However, player dissatisfaction persists, particularly towards surfaces like MetLife Stadium’s, used for both the NFL and World Cup final.