Cooper Kupp is not just a top wide receiver; he’s also a vocal advocate for player safety. He’s made his stance on artificial turf unmistakably clear: “I hate it,” he said of the synthetic surface at SoFi Stadium. His frustration echoes a growing concern among NFL athletes. Kupp’s stance is about more than discomfort. It’s about health, longevity, and fairness. Here are five compelling reasons why artificial turf does more harm than good in football.
1. Increased Risk of Injury
Artificial turf leads to more injuries than natural grass. Although the debate continues, studies show a higher rate of non-contact injuries on turf fields. According to AP News, knee and hip injuries were similar on both surfaces. However, foot and ankle injuries on artificial grass are much more frequent. The ground on turf is less forgiving. Players’ cleats can get stuck more quickly, causing awkward twists and falls. Several high-profile athletes have missed games due to turf-related injuries. These setbacks impact careers, team performance, and fan engagement. If the goal is safer games, natural grass is the better option.
2. Unnatural Surfaces Lead to Unnatural Movement
Turf may look uniform, but it doesn’t feel like grass. It changes how athletes move, sprint, and change direction. Grass allows for more natural pivoting and deceleration. Turf grips differently, affecting joint angles and muscle use. Athletes must adapt to both surfaces during the season, increasing physical strain. Kupp, a route-running specialist, depends on precise footwork. Turf puts added pressure on his joints, which may shorten his peak years. Over time, players can suffer chronic issues that stem from the turf’s unyielding structure.
3. PFAs and Toxic Exposure
Artificial turf contains PFAs, also known as “forever chemicals.” These substances do not break down easily and may pose long-term health risks. According to the EPA, PFAs have been linked to cancer, hormone disruption, reduced fertility rate, and immune system issues. You may have encountered these chemicals in connection with the recent nationwide firefighter foam lawsuit. Thousands of military personnel and affected communities have taken legal action against the chemical manufacturers. The concern? Improper cleanup of firefighting foam has allowed PFAS to seep into water supplies, quietly entering our bodies.
Turf often includes PFAs in the plastic blades and rubber infill. As the surface heats up or wears down, particles become airborne. According to The Guardian, athletes can inhale them or absorb them through the skin or an open wound. Repeated exposure compounds over time. The risk becomes serious for players who spend hours daily on turf. TorHoerman Law states that military personnel regularly exposed to PFAS in firefighting foams suffered serious health consequences. These effects often emerged later in life, highlighting long-term risks.
4. Heat Retention Can Be Dangerous
Artificial turf retains far more heat than natural grass. In hot weather, it becomes a safety hazard. Turf fields can heat up to temperatures far higher than the surrounding air. That turns a mild day into a medical risk. A study by the San Francisco Estuary Institute recorded extreme heat on a synthetic field in Sunnyvale, California. On a 108-degree day, the turf surface reached a scorching 138 degrees. According to The New Lede, it is hot enough to melt shoes and cause blisters during a scorching day. Players report heat burns and increased fatigue during turf games. Heat-related cramps, dehydration, and heatstroke become more likely. Even fans notice the shimmering waves rising off these surfaces. In an era that prioritizes athlete health, ignoring turf heat is a significant oversight.
5. Shorter Career Longevity
The wear and tear from turf is about more than one-off injuries. It accumulates stress on joints, especially knees, ankles, and hips. Grass cushions impact, while artificial turf does not. That forces joints to absorb more shock with every play. Over time, this adds up. Players may require more rehab, surgeries, or even retire early due to chronic pain. Many veterans reflect on how turf affected their long-term mobility. Kupp’s concern isn’t dramatic, it’s brilliant. He’s thinking about his future and the next generation of players.
Athletes Raise the Alarm, But Change Lags
Many players, like Cooper Kupp, have voiced strong opposition to turf. In a recent interview with CBS, Mekhi Becton, formerly of the New York Jets, loudly expressed his annoyance with turf. They want natural grass for safety and comfort. Yet, the NFL has been slow to respond. The NFLPA has repeatedly recommended switching to grass. Still, several stadiums use artificial turf for convenience and lower maintenance costs. That sends a frustrating message: budget matters more than player welfare. Players deserve input in their competitive environments. After all, they are the reason fans tune in. If Kupp can speak up, others should follow. The league must listen before more harm is done.
FAQs
Why do some stadiums still prefer artificial turf over grass?
Many stadiums choose artificial turf because it’s more durable and requires less maintenance than natural grass. Turf can handle concerts, events, and bad weather without becoming unusable. This translates into fewer repairs and lower costs over time for owners and venue managers.
Are there any hybrid options between grass and turf?
Some stadiums use hybrid systems that combine natural grass with synthetic fibers. These fields offer better durability while maintaining the feel and safety of real grass. They are popular in European football and are slowly gaining attention in the U.S.
Has the NFL committed to making any changes regarding turf usage?
While the NFL has acknowledged player concerns, no league-wide mandate to switch from turf to grass currently exists. Some teams have voluntarily made the change, but progress remains slow. The conversation continues as pressure from players and fans increases.
Overall, Cooper Kupp’s criticism of artificial turf is not just personal. It represents a shared frustration across the league. The risks, such as injury, toxic exposure, heat, and career damage, are very real. It’s time to rethink turf in football, not just for today’s stars but for the game’s future. Football is better, safer, and more authentic on grass. Let’s give players the field they deserve.
