How Many NFL Fields Are Grass?

A quick Google search will reveal that there are around 1,700 NFL fields. Of those, 1,500 are grass and 200 are artificial turf.

The Different Types of Fields

There are a variety of football fields, each of which has its own benefits and drawbacks. The most common type of field is grass, but there are also turf and artificial turf fields. Grass fields are the most traditional and have been around the longest, but they require a lot of maintenance.

Grass

There are two types of grass that are used on NFL fields: natural grass and artificial turf. Natural grass fields are made up of a variety of different grasses that are grown in different parts of the country, depending on the climate. The most common type of grass used on NFL fields is Kentucky bluegrass, which is used on more than half of all NFL fields. Other types of grass that are used on NFL fields include Bermuda grass, tall fescue, and zoysiagrass.

Artificial turf is made up of a variety of synthetic materials, including nylon, polypropylene, and polyethylene. The first artificial turf field was installed in 1964, and today there are 22 artificial turf fields in use by NFL teams. Artificial turf provides a number of benefits over natural grass, including increased durability, improved playing conditions in all weather conditions, and reduced maintenance costs.

Artificial Turf

Artificial turf was first used in NFL stadiums in 1966, and became increasingly popular in the 1970s and 1980s. As of 2016, 21 of the 32 NFL stadiums use some form of artificial turf.

While there are many benefits to using artificial turf, including reduced maintenance costs and the ability to use the field year-round, there are also some drawbacks. Artificial turf can be more difficult on players’ bodies, and some studies have suggested that it may increase the risk of concussions.

The History of Grass Fields

Grass has been the traditional playing surface for NFL fields since the league’s inception, but that doesn’t mean it has always been that way. In fact, the first few years of the NFL saw a variety of different surfaces being used. Let’s take a look at the history of NFL fields and how they’ve evolved over the years.

The First Grass Field

The first grass field in the NFL was at Forbes Field, home of the Pittsburgh Pirates (now the Steelers). The field was installed in 1934 by Pittsburgh’s head groundskeeper, Edward J. Barrow. The Steelers played their first game on grass on October 7, 1934, against the New York Giants.

The Use of Artificial Turf

The use of artificial turf began in the 1960s when it was first used in Astrodome in Houston. It became popular in the 1970s and 1980s as more and more stadiums began using it. It was seen as a more durable and cheaper alternative to natural grass. However, in recent years, there has been a trend towards using natural grass again. This is because artificial turf can be very hard on players’ bodies and it may even increase the risk of injuries.

The Pros and Cons of Grass Fields

NFL fields are typically made of grass because it is a natural surface that is easy to maintain. Grass fields can also provide a softer landing for players, which can help protect them from injuries. However, grass fields can be more difficult to keep in good condition and can become slippery when wet.

The Pros of Grass Fields

Many experts believe that playing on grass is actually better for athletes, as it is a softer surface that is less likely to cause injuries. In addition, grass fields tend to drain better than artificial turf fields, so they are less likely to become muddy and slippery. Some athletes also say that they feel faster on grass, as their cleats can get a better grip.

The Cons of Grass Fields

Many NFL players have spoken out about the dangers of playing on grass fields, saying that the hard surface puts them at a greater risk for injuries. Some have even said that they believe artificial turf is a safer option.

There are several reasons why grass fields may be more dangerous than artificial turf. First, the hard surface of the grass can cause players to slip and fall more easily. This can lead to serious injuries, such as concussions and broken bones. Additionally, the roots of the grass can create divots and uneven surfaces that can trip players or cause them to twist their ankles. Finally, the heat from the sun can cause the grass to dry out and become brittle, making it more likely to tear when players are running on it.

The Future of Grass Fields

NFL stadiums across the country are filled with thousands of fans on game day, but how many of those fans know about the type of grass that is on the field? Most people don’t think about it, but the type of grass on an NFL field is important. It has to be able to withstand the wear and tear of a football game.

The Use of Artificial Turf

The use of artificial turf has increased in recent years, as it provides a more consistent playing surface and is easier to maintain than natural grass. However, some players and coaches prefer the feel of natural grass, and it can be more forgiving on the body if players fall or are tackled.

As of 2019, there are 11 NFL fields that have artificial turf, while the rest are grass. It is estimated that about 70% of all high school football fields in the United States have artificial turf.

The Use of Natural Grass

Natural grass is used on every professional football field in the United States, but that may not always be the case. In recent years, many professional and collegiate teams have been experimenting with artificial turf, and some have even made the switch permanently.

There are several reasons why artificial turf might be preferable to natural grass. For one, it is much more durable and can withstand heavy use without requiring frequent replacement. It also holds up better in bad weather conditions, such as rain or snow.

Another advantage of artificial turf is that it allows for a consistent playing surface regardless of the weather conditions. This can be important for players who are trying to avoid injuries.

In the end, the decision of whether to use natural grass or artificial turf is up to each individual team. There are pros and cons to both options, and it ultimately comes down to what is best for the team’s particular situation.