As the FIFA World Cup continues to enjoy the use of NFL stadiums with grass, NFL players are growing increasingly frustrated that they'll be forced to play on turf in many venues once the tournament is over. San Francisco 49ers tight end George Kittle has decided to put the entire league on blast for this.
In a recent statement, Kittle said that the players have overwhelmingly made it clear that they prefer to play on grass fields over any other playing surface. He said that now that the players know the stadiums can put down grass for games in the World Cup, it should become standard for NFL owners that prioritize the health of their players.
"We've made it clear that we prefer grass fields. We know it's better on our bodies. And clearly, we know it's possible based on everything that went into putting down grass fields for the World Cup in each stadium," Kittle said, via the NFL Players Association.
"At this point, it comes down to the NFL making it a priority and choosing to invest in us as players, because our bodies are our business, which they get to capitalize on!"
Screaming into the void?
NFL fans were a bit mixed on whether Kittle's words will be taken seriously or if the owners are too dug in to make any changes.
"Literally don’t get why the NFL won’t put grass in stadiums for NFL games. Literally makes no sense. It’s ridiculous too that they won’t say anything in response or give a reason.. DO IT," one user remarked.
"It’s very possible injuries are cheaper than maintaining grass unfortunately," another remarked.
"He’s right. Every NFL stadium should be mandated to have grass," wrote a third.
"Sure the NFL saves some money from using artificial turf vs grass….. but don’t they also lose a TON of money when their star athletes get injured due to that turf???"
© Kyle Terada-Imagn Images
NFL owners aren't just going to spend millions of dollars to change their playing surfaces just because the players are more concerned about injury risks.
Most likely, the NFLPA will have to give some concessions in the next round of Collective Bargaining Agreement negotiations if they want their preferred playing surfaces.
