Injuries Prompt Turf Debate at MetLife Stadium

East Rutherford, New Jersey — The knee injury suffered by standout wide receiver Nabers has reignited discussions about the turf surface at MetLife Stadium. An executive from an opposing NFL team stated that his players feel “petrified” of playing on the FieldTurf, fearing it might exacerbate injuries.

Nabers tore his ACL and meniscus during a game on Sunday while attempting to jump for a pass. He grabbed his knee immediately after landing, leading to a confirmed season-ending injury. David White, interim executive director of the NFL Players Association, visited the Giants this week and addressed concerns about the stadium’s turf, highlighting its role in past player injuries.

MetLife Stadium, home to the Giants and Jets, replaced its turf with an updated FieldTurf system in 2023, hoping to reduce injuries. Last year, injury rates, according to NFL data, were low in comparison to other venues. However, since 2020, at least 15 players have suffered serious knee or Achilles injuries at MetLife, with most occurring before the installation of the new turf.

The Jets conducted research suggesting that grass fields had more injuries last season, with 38 injuries on grass compared to 23 on turf. They noted that most injuries occurred in training camp rather than during games. Additionally, MetLife ranked ninth-best for lower-extremity injuries, and is considered the safest venue for visiting players.

Odell Beckham Jr. vocally criticized the turf, urging the NFL to make changes. In a poll by the NFL Players Association, over 90% of players have expressed a preference for grass surfaces. Despite the backlash, the NFL has no current plans to replace the turf at MetLife.

Nabers’ injury has drawn renewed attention to the topic, which had already gained traction after quarterback Joe Burrow suffered a turf toe injury at Paycor Stadium. Burrow is expected to miss at least three months after undergoing surgery.