When former LSU and current New York Giants star Malik Nabers went down with a season-ending ACL tear at MetLife Stadium, the debate resurfaced: is turf to blame? According to data, yes — and the NFL knows it.

In the short video The NFL’s Addiction to Turf, creator Michael Smith explains how synthetic fields are driving up injuries across the league, and why the double standard with the World Cup makes it even worse.

👉 Watch the full video here: 

 

The Turf Problem in the NFL

  • MetLife Stadium recently installed a modern synthetic surface called FieldTurf Core.
  • Despite upgrades, injury rates remain high.
  • NFLPA study shows:
    • 32% higher rate of non-contact knee injuries on turf.
    • 69% higher rate of non-contact foot and ankle injuries on turf.

Why FIFA Got It Right

  • The 2026 FIFA World Cup Final will be played at MetLife.
  • FIFA requires natural grass, forcing stadiums to rip out turf.
  • Every NFL venue hosting matches this summer will maintain real grass.

The Double Standard

  • After the World Cup, stadiums plan to rip out grass and reinstall turf for the NFL season.
  • Owners argue turf handles climate challenges and heavy usage better.
  • Reality: stadiums like Heinz Field in Pittsburgh (shared by the Steelers, Pitt, and concerts) prove grass can survive.

The Money Factor

  • Maintaining grass does cost more.
  • But the NFL made a record $23 billion in revenue last year — plenty to cover it.
  • Critics argue the league is putting profits and convenience over player safety.

FAQs: Turf vs. Grass in the NFL

Why does the NFL use turf instead of grass?
 Owners cite cost, durability, and heavy stadium use — but studies show turf increases injury risks.

Which stadiums use turf?
 About half of NFL stadiums, including MetLife, AT&T Stadium, and Gillette Stadium.

Is grass safer than turf?
 Yes — studies show significantly fewer non-contact knee, foot, and ankle injuries.

Will the NFL switch to grass permanently?
 Unlikely without player and fan pressure, though FIFA’s mandate shows it’s possible.

Bottom Line

If FIFA demands grass for its players, why shouldn’t the NFL? With billions in revenue, the league has the resources — but not yet the will — to prioritize player safety. Until then, turf injuries will keep fueling the controversy.

👉 Credit: Michael Smith. Watch the full video here: The NFL’s Addiction to Turf

Photo by Myron Mott on Unsplash