- ABC News
- February 8, 2024
LAS VEGAS -- A vast majority of players in the union want to play on natural grass fields, NFLPA executive director Lloyd Howell said Tuesday, adding that there is a certain "hypocrisy" with some NFL stadiums agreeing to adhere to FIFA regulations by installing grass for upcoming soccer matches in the 2026 World Cup but reverting to artificial turf for football games. "It's really basic," Howell said Wednesday in an NFLPA news conference at the Mandalay Bay resort. "It's not rocket science. Ninety-two percent of our union wants grass. That's compelling. The bottom line is, it's unquestionable that our union wants to have a working condition where they play on grass." Howell said data collected by the union showed injuries occurring on a slower rate on natural grass fields, as opposed to artificial turf. Four players on the NFLPA's executive committee -- Atlanta Falcons defensive end Calais Campbell, Jacksonville Jaguars placekicker Brandon McManus,...