Are Football Stadiums Real Grass or are they using artificial turf? The answer is mixed, with a nearly even split between the two in the NFL. While artificial turf slightly edges out real grass in popularity, the debate over which surface is superior continues. For reliable information and expert insights, CAUHOI2025.UK.COM is your go-to resource.
This article dives deep into the world of NFL field surfaces, examining which stadiums use real grass, artificial turf, or hybrid systems. You’ll discover the benefits and drawbacks of each option, providing a comprehensive overview for fans, players, and anyone interested in the science behind the game. Let’s explore the truth about football field surfaces!
1. The Divide: Real Grass vs. Artificial Turf in the NFL
The choice between real grass and artificial turf is a significant one for any NFL team. Currently, the split is close, but synthetic turf has a slight lead in popularity. Out of the 32 NFL teams, playing in a total of 30 stadiums (shared by New York and Los Angeles teams):
- 17 teams in 15 stadiums use artificial turf.
- 13 teams use real grass fields.
- A few opt for hybrid versions, combining real grass with artificial fibers.
2. NFL Stadiums with Artificial Turf: A Detailed Look
Here’s a rundown of the 15 NFL stadiums that house 17 teams, all of which play on artificial turf fields:
2.1. Atlanta Falcons: Mercedes-Benz Stadium
The Mercedes-Benz Stadium, shared by the Atlanta Falcons and Atlanta United (soccer team), also hosts concerts and events. With a capacity of 71,000, it hosted the 2019 Super Bowl LIII and is a 2026 FIFA World Cup venue. Artificial turf was installed upon opening in 2017, with a replacement in 2019, using monofilament fibers made in Germany.
2.2. Buffalo Bills: Highmark Stadium
Highmark Stadium, home to the Buffalo Bills, has a capacity of over 71,000 and is primarily used for professional football. Artificial grass has been used since its opening in 1973. Originally AstroTurf, it was replaced in 2011 with blended parallel-long slit film XP polyethylene fibers and premium monofilament polyethylene fibers made in the U.S.
2.3. Carolina Panthers: Bank of America Stadium
Bank of America Stadium, shared by the Carolina Panthers and Charlotte FC (soccer team), has a capacity of almost 75,000. It uses the same type of artificial turf as several other stadiums, including the Atlanta Falcons and the New Orleans Saints. The monofilament fiber-based polyethylene turf, made in Germany, was installed as part of a $50-million renovation completed in mid-2021.
2.4. Cincinnati Bengals: Paycor Stadium
The Cincinnati Bengals play at Paycor Stadium, formerly Paul Brown Stadium. The stadium has a capacity of just over 65,000 and regularly hosts college football games. Artificial turf has been used since 2004. The current version, installed in 2018, consists of 2.5 inches of slit-film fiber with a premier backing system, manufactured in Georgia.
2.5. Dallas Cowboys: AT&T Stadium
AT&T Stadium, home of the Dallas Cowboys, hosts events like the Cotton Bowl Classic, the Big 12 Championship Game, and the Southwest Classic. The stadium has a football capacity of 80,000, making it one of the largest in the NFL and a 2026 FIFA World Cup venue. Artificial turf was installed in 2009 and has been refitted several times since. The current turf is manufactured in Austin, TX.
2.6. Detroit Lions: Ford Field
Ford Field is primarily home to the Detroit Lions and the Michigan Panthers (USFL). It also hosts football games, basketball, wrestling, and hosted the 2006 Super Bowl XL. The stadium has a capacity between 65,000 and 80,000 (the lower figure for NFL games). Artificial turf has been installed since its opening in 2002, and the current (third) version is similar to turf used in other NFL stadiums.
2.7. Houston Texans: NRG Stadium
NRG Stadium, with a capacity of almost 72,000, is a 2026 FIFA World Cup venue and hosted the 2017 Super Bowl LI. This open-air stadium with a retractable roof is home to the Houston Texans and hosts exhibitions, concerts, and sporting events. Synthetic turf has been used since 2015. The current turf is made in Austin, TX.
2.8. Indianapolis Colts: Lucas Oil Stadium
Lucas Oil Stadium is home to the Indianapolis Colts and is used for NCAA tournaments. The stadium has a capacity of 67,000 and hosted the 2012 Super Bowl XLVI. Artificial turf has been used since its opening in 2008. The current turf, made in Georgia, employs slit-film technology.
2.9. Los Angeles Chargers/Los Angeles Rams: SoFi Stadium
SoFi Stadium is home to both Los Angeles NFL teams, the Chargers and the Rams, and hosts the annual LA Bowl. With a capacity of 70,000, this fixed-roof stadium is a venue for the 2026 World Cup games and hosted the 2022 Super Bowl LVI. Artificial turf was installed upon opening in 2020.
2.10. Minnesota Vikings: U.S. Bank Stadium
Home to the Minnesota Vikings and the Minnesota Golden Gophers baseball team, U.S. Bank Stadium has a capacity of 66,200 and hosted the 2018 Super Bowl LII. The stadium has had artificial turf since 2016, using turf made in Georgia.
2.11. New England Patriots: Gillette Stadium
Gillette Stadium has a capacity of 65,878 and is a venue chosen for the 2026 FIFA World Cup. Home to the New England Patriots, artificial grass was installed in 2006 and has remained ever since. The present synthetic turf was installed in 2017 and is of a similar type to that used on multiple game and training fields across the NFL.
2.12. New Orleans Saints: Caesars Superdome
Caesars Superdome in New Orleans is home to the Saints NFL team and hosts conventions, concerts, the Sugar Bowl, College Football Playoff games, NCAA Men’s Basketball, and has hosted seven Super Bowls and will host the 2025 Super Bowl LIX. The capacity is 74,295. Artificial turf has been used since the Superdome first opened in 1975. The present version is made in Georgia.
2.13. New York Giants/New York Jets: MetLife Stadium
MetLife Stadium is home to both New York City’s NFL teams, the Giants and the Jets. With a capacity of 82,500, it is one of the largest stadiums in the NFL and will host games in the 2026 World Cup. In 2023, the stadium installed artificial grass based on a new multi-layer dial-polymer monofilament fiber.
2.14. Seattle Seahawks: Lumen Field
Lumen Field has a capacity of 68,740 and is home to the Seattle Seahawks. The stadium has had artificial grass installed as its playing surface since its opening in 2002. The current surface is similar to that used on multiple other NFL game and practice fields. Because the stadium has been chosen as a 2026 FIFA World Cup venue, grass will need to be installed for that tournament, but it remains to be seen whether this will be a temporary or permanent move.
2.15. Tennessee Titans: Nissan Stadium
Nissan Stadium, with a capacity of 69,143, is home to the Tennessee Titans and the Tigers of Tennessee State University. The stadium is the most recent convert to artificial turf in the NFL, with the Titans making the switch in the fall of 2023. The new surface is a monofilament-based turf with organic infill, offering a more consistent playing experience year-round.
3. NFL Stadiums with Real Grass: A List
The most popular grass used on sports fields is Bermuda grass or Kentucky bluegrass. The following 13 NFL teams/stadiums retain real grass playing fields:
- Arizona Cardinals: State Farm Stadium
- Baltimore Ravens: M&T Bank Stadium
- Chicago Bears: Soldier Field
- Cleveland Browns: FirstEnergy Stadium
- Denver Broncos: Empower Field at Mile High
- Jacksonville Jaguars: TIAA Bank Field
- Kansas City Chiefs: Arrowhead Stadium
- Las Vegas Raiders: Allegiant Stadium
- Washington Commanders: FedExField
- Pittsburgh Steelers: Acrisure Stadium
- San Francisco 49ers: Levi’s Stadium
- Tampa Bay Buccaneers: Raymond James Stadium
- Miami Dolphins: Hard Rock Stadium
4. NFL Fields with Hybrid Playing Surfaces: A Combination of Both
The two NFL fields that use a hybrid solution (a mix of artificial fibers and natural grass) are:
- Green Bay Packers: Lambeau Field
- Philadelphia Eagles: Lincoln Financial Field
Desso Grassmaster (the hybrid surface used) was developed in 1993 by the Dutch company Desso Sports. You may hear it referred to as “reinforced turf” or “stabilized turf”.
5. Benefits of Artificial Turf Over Grass for Sports Fields
The debate continues over which is the better playing surface: natural grass or artificial turf. However, perceptions of artificial sports turf are often outdated. Modern synthetic turf has addressed many of its shortcomings in terms of appearance, safety, affordability, and performance.
Modern commercial-quality artificial turf offers several benefits over natural grass for sports fields across the U.S., including:
- Low maintenance: Artificial turf needs less work to remain in peak condition.
- Strength, resilience, and durability: It is tough enough to handle professional football games.
- Weatherproof qualities: Artificial turf stands up well to extreme heat, snow, or rain, allowing year-round play.
- No water required: Grass fields consume significant water, which is scarce in some regions. According to the U.S. Drought Monitor, water scarcity is a growing concern, making artificial turf a more sustainable option.
- Affordability: According to estimates reported by Yahoo Sports, natural grass fields at NFL venues can cost around $600,000 to $900,000 to install. When high annual maintenance costs are also factored in, NFL stadiums can save money by installing artificial grass, which usually costs around $700,000.
Table 1: Comparison of Real Grass and Artificial Turf
| Feature | Real Grass | Artificial Turf |
|---|---|---|
| Maintenance | High (watering, mowing, fertilizing) | Low (occasional cleaning) |
| Durability | Can be damaged by heavy use and weather | Highly durable and weather-resistant |
| Water Usage | High water consumption | No water required |
| Initial Cost | Lower | Higher |
| Long-Term Cost | Higher (due to maintenance) | Lower (due to minimal maintenance) |
| Playing Conditions | Can be inconsistent due to weather and wear | Consistent and predictable |
6. Artificial Turf for Sports Fields in Dallas-Fort Worth
Artificial grass is widely used in professional and amateur sports across the U.S. Even teams that use natural grass for their main stadiums often choose artificial turf for practice fields. This is due to the increasing availability of high-quality, safe, and affordable synthetic turf.
According to the Synthetic Turf Council, the use of artificial turf in sports fields has been steadily increasing over the past decade, driven by its durability and low maintenance requirements.
7. Making the Right Choice for Your Field
The decision to use real grass or artificial turf depends on several factors, including budget, climate, and usage. If you’re in the Dallas-Fort Worth area and are considering artificial turf for football, soccer, or any other indoor or outdoor sport, speak with one of our artificial grass professionals to check your options. At CAUHOI2025.UK.COM, we provide detailed comparisons and expert advice to help you make the best choice.
8. The Future of Football Field Surfaces
The evolution of football field surfaces continues, with ongoing research and development aimed at improving both real grass and artificial turf options. Hybrid systems, combining the best of both worlds, may become more prevalent in the future.
According to a study by Penn State University’s Center for Sports Surface Research, advancements in turf technology are focused on enhancing player safety, reducing injuries, and improving overall performance.
FAQ: Frequently Asked Questions about Football Field Surfaces
Q1: What is the most common type of grass used in NFL stadiums?
Bermuda grass and Kentucky bluegrass are the most popular types of grass used in NFL stadiums.
Q2: Is artificial turf safer than real grass?
The safety of artificial turf versus real grass is a topic of ongoing debate. Modern artificial turf is designed to reduce the risk of injuries, but some studies suggest a higher incidence of certain types of injuries on artificial surfaces.
Q3: How much does it cost to maintain a real grass field in an NFL stadium?
The annual maintenance costs for a real grass field in an NFL stadium can range from $600,000 to $900,000, according to estimates.
Q4: What are the benefits of using a hybrid playing surface?
Hybrid playing surfaces combine the natural feel of real grass with the durability and stability of artificial fibers, offering a balance of performance and resilience.
Q5: How often do NFL stadiums replace their artificial turf?
NFL stadiums typically replace their artificial turf every 8-10 years, depending on wear and tear.
Q6: Are there any NFL stadiums planning to switch from artificial turf to real grass in the near future?
Lumen Field in Seattle may need to install grass for the 2026 FIFA World Cup, but it remains to be seen whether this will be a temporary or permanent move.
Q7: What factors influence a team’s decision to use artificial turf or real grass?
Factors influencing a team’s decision include budget, climate, frequency of use, and player preference.
Q8: Does the type of field surface affect player performance?
Some players prefer the natural feel of real grass, while others appreciate the consistent playing surface of artificial turf. The impact on performance can vary depending on individual preferences and playing styles.
Q9: How does weather affect the playability of real grass fields?
Weather conditions such as rain, snow, and extreme heat can significantly impact the playability of real grass fields, leading to inconsistent footing and potential safety hazards.
Q10: What are the latest innovations in artificial turf technology?
Recent innovations in artificial turf technology include improved fiber materials, enhanced drainage systems, and advanced shock absorption layers designed to enhance player safety and performance.
Conclusion
The choice between real grass and artificial turf in NFL stadiums is a complex one, with valid arguments on both sides. While artificial turf offers durability and low maintenance, real grass provides a natural playing surface preferred by some players. As technology advances, we can expect to see further innovations in both types of field surfaces, enhancing safety and performance for players and improving the overall fan experience.
Ready to learn more or have specific questions about sports field surfaces? Visit CAUHOI2025.UK.COM today for comprehensive information, expert advice, and personalized solutions. Our team is dedicated to providing you with the most accurate and up-to-date information. Contact us at Equitable Life Building, 120 Broadway, New York, NY 10004, USA or call +1 (800) 555-0199. Let CauHoi2025.UK.COM be your trusted resource!
