NFL players renew call for permanent grass fields after World Cup use

Dozens of NFL players posted on social media ahead of Sunday's FIFA World Cup final at MetLife Stadium, using the hashtag #WorthTheCost to call for permanent grass playing surfaces. MetLife Stadium replaced its artificial turf with grass for the 78 World Cup matches hosted by NFL stadiums this summer.

Chicago Bears quarterback Caleb Williams and Washington Commanders offensive tackle Laremy Tunsil joined the posts. "If stadiums can make grass work for the World Cup, they can make it work for NFL players. We're #WorthTheCost," Tunsil wrote on X. Green Bay linebacker Zaire Franklin added, "The cost of doing nothing is paid for by players' bodies.

All 11 NFL stadiums hosting World Cup matches installed temporary natural grass at FIFA's request. Seven of those stadiums normally use synthetic turf for NFL games and will return to that surface after the tournament ends Sunday. "The temporary installation of natural grass fields for the World Cup is a choice by certain NFL team owners to do for soccer players what they refuse to do for NFL players," the NFLPA said.

The statement noted that 92% of NFL players prefer natural grass and said the technology, expertise, and resources exist to install such fields.

Player statements San Francisco 49ers tight end George Kittle released a statement in June supporting grass fields. "We've made it clear that we prefer grass fields," Kittle said. "We know it's better on our bodies. " The NFL did not respond to a request for comment on the social media posts.