Josh Allen decries turf burns, urges league-wide switch to natural grass

Josh Allen, the league’s 2024 MVP, told reporters that artificial turf inflicted intense burns on his legs, leaving him unable to sleep. He highlighted the stark difference he experiences when practicing on the grass at Buffalo’s Highmark Stadium, where he feels much better. Allen’s comments echo those of other prominent athletes such as George Kittle, Caleb Williams and Jonathan Taylor, who have criticized turf for increasing injury risk.

Currently, half of the NFL’s clubs, including the Giants/Jets, Falcons and Cowboys, rely on synthetic surfaces to cut expenses and host concerts or other events. Critics point to past injuries, like Aaron Rodgers’ Achilles tear on MetLife Stadium’s turf, as evidence of the danger. While owners like Jerry Jones defend turf’s safety and financial benefits, Allen said he would instantly replace all fields with grass if he could.