NFL Players Call for a Switch to Natural Grass

The 2026 FIFA World Cup has brought a new perspective to the United States, and one of them might have a lasting impact on the NFL. The event saw the transformation of several home stadiums into soccer cathedrals, complete with natural grass replacing artificial turf. This change has sparked a movement among NFL players, with many calling for the league to adopt natural grass as the primary playing surface.

San Francisco 49ers tight end George Kittle was among the first high-profile players to speak out in favor of natural grass. In a recent tweet, he expressed his preference for grass over turf, stating, ‘Grass still looks great! Let’s use grass instead of turf @NFL!! Please? Thanks guys!’

Why Do Players Prefer Natural Grass?

The primary reason behind the players’ preference for natural grass is player safety. Studies have shown that artificial turf leads to a higher rate of non-contact lower-extremity injuries compared to natural grass. According to data from 2012-2018, the NFL saw a 28% higher rate of non-contact lower-extremity injuries on turf compared to grass. This is largely due to the lack of give in artificial turf, which puts more force on the legs.

The NFLPA has long been aware of the issue and has been pushing for a switch to natural grass. In an article written by JC Tretter in 2020, he outlined the discrepancy in injuries between the two playing surfaces. Tretter noted that his joints felt ‘noticeably stiffer’ after practicing on artificial fields compared to grass.

The evidence is also anecdotal. Several high-profile players have suffered serious lower-body injuries on artificial turf, including Malik Nabers, Aaron Rodgers, Sterling Shepard, Wan’Dale Robinson, Kyle Fuller, and Nick Bosa. The list of players who have suffered injuries on artificial turf is extensive, and it’s clear that the surface is a major contributor to the problem.

The World Cup Proved Natural Grass is Feasible

The World Cup has shown that natural grass is not only possible but also feasible for large-scale events. Several stadiums, including MetLife Stadium and SoFi Stadium, successfully hosted World Cup matches on natural grass. The process of converting a field from turf to grass is significant, requiring weeks of preparation and maintenance. However, the results are well worth the effort, as natural grass provides a safer and more enjoyable playing surface for players.

The NFL is not short on resources, and with the other half of the league already using natural grass, it’s not asking too much to expect the rest to follow suit. As George Kittle pointed out, ‘Why not just spend a couple extra million dollars to just grass all the fields?’ It’s a simple yet effective solution that could greatly improve player safety and overall well-being.

Player Support for Natural Grass

The call for natural grass has been echoed by several high-profile players, including Bears QB Caleb Williams, Colts RB Jonathan Taylor, Commanders OT Laremy Tunsil, Panthers LB Devin Lloyd, and Packers TE Tucker Kraft. The movement has gained significant momentum, with players using social media to express their support and call on the league to make the switch.

The NFLPA has also been vocal in its support for natural grass, with executive director JC Tretter embracing the issue. The union has made it one of its primary sticking points with the league, pushing for a switch to natural surfaces for three years.