With the conclusion of the World Cup, NFL players are more outspoken about preferring grass over artificial turf. This preference arises as 11 World Cup venues in the U.S., including seven NFL stadiums with artificial turf, adhered to FIFA’s grass requirement.

The NFLPA humorously remarked on the “green carpet” for soccer players, while NFL players launched the social media campaign “#WorthTheCost” emphasizing their safety.

Saquon Barkley

Saquon Barkley, expressing skepticism, noted, “If it’s feasible for the World Cup, why not for us?” Although he admits limited knowledge on injury differences between turf and grass, he prefers playing on grass. “Most players favor grass. If data shows it’s safer, that’s justification enough,” he stated.

Barkley, recalling past injuries on grass, highlighted the uncontrollable nature of some injuries. Despite setbacks, his 2,000-yard milestone was achieved on grass fields with the Philadelphia Eagles.

“We don’t like practicing on turf. If data supports our views, there’s no reason to avoid grass.”

Half of NFL’s stadiums use turf, though 92% of players reportedly prefer grass. The ease and lower costs of turf maintain its prevalence. In late 2023, the NFL announced a “library of approved” field standards for 2026. New fields must comply, but there’s no mandatory grass requirement.

Dr. Allen Sills, NFL’s chief medical officer, noted that data shows no “statistically significant” injury differences on varying surfaces. Nonetheless, players criticize surfaces like MetLife Stadium’s, used both by the Giants, Jets, and for the World Cup final.