Over the past few years, there has been a lot of criticism against the National Football League (NFL) for using artificial turf fields in most of its stadiums. Players, coaches and the NFL Players Association (NFLPA) have criticized the turf, claiming that it increases the risk of serious injury. Though the league continues to grow tremendously, questions still arise about whether the convenience of having turf fields is more valued than spending more on grass fields to increase player safety.
According to the NFLPA, players are more likely to suffer non-contact lower-body injuries on turf than on natural grass. The turf surface is often described as sticker, causing cleats to get stuck and restrict movement, this is believed to be a main cause for the increase of non contact injuries. Many players, including one of the best quarterbacks in the history of the league, Aaron Rodgers, sustained a major injury while playing on turf. In the 2024 season opener he ruptured his Achilles tendon, a season ending, non-contact injury. This led to deep emotion among players and fans who believe that the league should prioritize the health and longevity of its players, by removing turf.
NFLPA executive director Lloyd Howell stated, “players have been clear that they want safer fields. It’s time for the league to make that change.” Veteran cornerback Richard Sherman also shared his experience, saying, “you can feel the difference in every step, turf just doesn’t give the same way grass does.”
Those who support turf fields generally argue that artificial turf is less expensive to maintain and is cheaper, especially in stadiums used for concerts and other events. However, players’ safety should come first over lower maintenance costs. A league that generates billions each year can afford safer playing conditions, there’s no doubt about it.
The NFL should move as quickly as possible to replace the turf in every stadium with natural grass. Spending on player safety would show how much the league cares for their players by helping their health in the games. Until it’s switched, the risk of injury on artificial turf will remain a concern and serious problem for all players who step onto the field.
https://www.si.com/nfl/bengals/allbengals-insiders-plus/andrew-whitworth-richard-sherman-call-for-safer-nfl-playing-surfaces
https://www.cbsnews.com/baltimore/news/nflpa-leader-urges-all-stadiums-to-use-natural-grass-citing-safety-in-letter/
https://www.nbcchicago.com/news/sports/nfl/nflpa-executive-director-lloyd-howell-makes-statement-on-nfl-field-surface-following-aaron-rodgers-injury/3227254/
https://www.highbarhealth.com/blog/does-turf-or-grass-keep-athletes-safer#:~:text=Across%20field%20sports%2C%20artificial%20turf,for%20elite%20men%20remain%20mixed.
