In the push and pull over whether NFL fields will be covered with high-quality grass, a global solution is possible, albeit unlikely, through collective bargaining. For now, the decisions will be made one team at a time — especially as new stadiums are built.
The Bills decided to convert from turf to grass in their new stadium. The Chiefs, who are in the process of building a new domed stadium in Kansas, prefer to continue to play on grass, but no decision has been made.
The Browns are also building a covered stadium, in suburban Brook Park. They currently play on grass. Per the team, the Browns will play on artificial turf in the new stadium.
That said, the new stadium will have the ability to accommodate grass, which happens most often when a venue hosts soccer matches. Which means that, in theory, the artificial turf for NFL games could eventually be swapped out for grass.
For now, the plan is artificial turf. Which will tip the current 16-16 balance of teams playing homes games on real grass and fake grass toward turf, 17-15.
Unless, of course, owners of teams that play on turf decide to switch to grass. Starting with the incoming owners of the Seahawks, possibly.
