Key facts
- Seven NFL stadiums are installing grass fields to meet FIFA World Cup regulations.
- 92% of NFL players prefer grass fields over artificial turf, according to the NFLPA.
- FIFA has stringent standards for playing surfaces, emphasizing grass.
- The NFLPA has conducted studies indicating grass is safer than turf.
- The NFL has no plans to mandate natural grass fields.
- New field standards will apply to all NFL teams by the 2026 season.
Seven NFL stadiums are transitioning to grass fields to comply with FIFA's regulations for the upcoming World Cup. This change is expected to intensify the debate within the NFL concerning player safety and the preference for natural grass over artificial turf. Fox Sports announcer Stu Holden anticipates that the successful implementation of these grass fields will lead to increased player demands for similar surfaces in their home stadiums. Holden noted FIFA's rigorous standards for playing surfaces, highlighting that a high-quality grass field is essential for a good game. He stated that players find real grass to be a superior playing surface that turf cannot replicate. The NFL Players Association (NFLPA) has consistently advocated for grass, citing studies that suggest it is safer and leads to better play. Despite the overwhelming player preference, with 92% favoring grass according to the NFLPA, the league has not mandated natural grass. The NFL's chief medical officer, Dr. Allen Sills, stated that there are no statistically significant differences in lower-extremity injuries or concussions between grass and turf surfaces. However, the league is implementing new field standards for all teams by the 2026 season, which will apply to both grass and synthetic turf.