The NFLPA is pushing to eliminate all artificial turf from NFL stadiums in America to reduce the risk of season ending joint and ligament injuries. Artificial turf fields have been viewed as a convenient, low maintenance alternative to real grass. However, recent NFL headlines along with extensive research suggest that turf fields also bring a larger risk to player health. Studies comparing injuries on artificial turf with those on real grass show higher rates of injuries among lower extremities such as knee, foot, and ankle injuries.
A recent analysis found that turf fields produced a 16% increase in injuries per play when compared to real grass fields. “The Carolina Panthers have lost so many players to ligament injuries” said Carter Yost when asked about how his team was affected by injuries over the last few years. The Panthers lost three straight quarterbacks to turf injuries in 2022 which sparked league-wide concern on whether turf fields were safe for players.
Statistically, Cleats better stick in turf which increases the rate of knee ligament injuries which are very often season ending injuries which can ruin a team’s season. The NFL has responded to these stat backed claims by investing in a newer generation of turf with standardized maintenance procedures which supposedly decreased the rate of injury however, the gap between both field types is still very apparent.
To further increase safety, players and coaches have decided to make some changes around the league. One of the main things they’ve decided to change is the cleats used on turf. Players have shifted to using a type of cleat that provides less stick to the turf and allows for easier movement while still letting the players cut hard. Another significant change is the banning of turf fields in playoff games to prevent injury at all costs.
In the end, the debate over artificial turf vs grass is not just about cost efficiency and maintenance but also about protecting the players and lengthening their careers. With research showing that turf raises the risk of certain key injuries, despite the efforts of the NFL, more must be done to keep the players we all love on the field. Whether its through banning turf fields all together or further investing in making these fields as safe as possible, something more must be done. Until then, players are taking an unnecessary risk every time they step onto a non-grass field.
