As the Buffalo Bills make their move to the new Highmark Stadium, they're not just changing their address-they're also switching up their playing surface. Since 1973, the Bills have been running routes on artificial turf, but those days are behind them. The new stadium marks a fresh chapter with the introduction of natural Kentucky bluegrass, a move that might just give the Bills an edge over their NFL rivals.
This transition to grass is more than just a change of scenery; it's a strategic shift. While artificial turf is known for its durability and ease of maintenance, it's also been linked to non-contact lower-knee injuries due to its slippery and rough nature.
The Bills' new grass field, however, is heated and maintained at 60 degrees, even during Western New York's harsh winters. This should ensure smoother games deep into the season.
The Bills' decision aligns with the preferences of 92% of NFL players who favor real grass. This change not only prioritizes player safety but also transforms the stadium into a football-first venue, though it remains open to hosting concerts and potentially even soccer matches, like a Men's or Women's World Cup.
The debate over grass versus turf has been ongoing. Turf fields have been associated with a higher incidence of non-contact injuries, while grass fields are thought to reduce such risks.
JC Tretter, President of the NFL Players Association, has been a vocal advocate for all NFL stadiums to switch to natural grass, emphasizing player safety and the quality of the game. The Bills have heeded this call for the 2026 NFL season.
While the NFLPA may eventually mandate grass fields, teams currently have the freedom to choose their playing surface. Some teams are considering hybrid fields that combine turf and grass, similar to those used by the Green Bay Packers and Philadelphia Eagles. This approach aims to balance reducing injuries with the financial benefits of hosting non-football events.
Looking back to the 1970s and 1980s, natural grass was the norm, allowing players to focus on the game without the fear of severe non-contact injuries. As the NFL transitioned to artificial turf, the game evolved to emphasize speed and athleticism, but at the cost of increased injury risks.
Today, nearly half of NFL stadiums still use artificial turf. While it enhances athletic performance, it's also been a factor in career-ending injuries.
Despite the preference for grass among players, the NFL remains split between the two surfaces. The win percentages on turf versus grass are roughly equal, but the conversation around player safety continues.
As the NFL and Commissioner Roger Goodell consider the future of playing surfaces, there's a nostalgic hope for a return to the "real football" era of the past. Whether this shift will happen remains to be seen, but fans are certainly eager for a game that prioritizes both safety and tradition.