With the World Cup behind us, it seems NFL players are becoming more outspoken about their preference for grass fields. A significant factor in this conversation is that seven out of the eleven World Cup venues in the U.S. were NFL stadiums that featured artificial turf, even though FIFA mandates grass surfaces.
The NFL Players Association has been humorously suggesting the idea of a “green carpet” for players this summer. Recently, a social media campaign has emerged with players declaring their safety is “#WorthTheCost.”
Players like Saquon Barkley believe this sets a standard that’s hard to ignore. He mentioned, “It’s going to be tough for them to argue against that,” referencing the ability to play on grass for the World Cup. Barkley admitted he might not know everything about the grass versus turf injury studies but acknowledges his clear preference.
“I prefer grass. Most players, I believe, do too. If the research indicates it’s safer for us to play on grass, that’s good enough for me,” he stated.
Barkley, who sustained significant injuries from turf in Chicago back in 2020, pointed out that his situation emphasizes the unpredictable nature of injuries. Ironically, his standout 2,000-yard season occurred while playing on turf with the Philadelphia Eagles.
Despite comments from NFLPA Executive Director Lloyd Howell, it’s worth noting that around half of NFL stadiums still feature grass. In fact, 92% of players have expressed a preference for grass fields, but the misconception remains that turf is cheaper and easier to maintain due to the variety of events that take place at stadiums throughout the year.
Last year, it was announced that each NFL team would receive a “library of approved and certified NFL fields” before the start of the 2026 season. New fields are required to meet specified standards, and teams are allotted two years to comply.
These standards will apply to both turf and synthetic fields, yet the league has no immediate plans to enforce natural grass fields.
Dr. Allen Sills, the NFL’s chief medical officer, has noted that there are no significant statistical differences in lower-extremity injuries or concussions based on the type of playing surface. This statement stands in stark contrast to the prevalent preference among players for grass and ongoing complaints about certain surfaces, like that at MetLife Stadium, which hosted the World Cup finals.
