-Ed-Mulholland-USA-TODAY-Sports-38
If you needed any more evidence that Metlife Stadium is one of the worst fields in all the NFL, here it is:
In the past two years, the New York Giants have had as many torn ACL injuries as the Chiefs, Steelers, Patriots, Falcons, Bears, Jets, Dolphins, Saints, Texans, Jaguars…combined.
Metlife Stadium’s field condition has much to do with the Giants’ struggles. However, the venue is expecting to make the switch to not grass, but a newer synthetic surface.
Many players would rather play on natural grass. Giants safety Julian Love back in November stated his displeasure to NJ Advance Media.
“If everybody could be playing on grass, that would be the best-case scenario. It’s just easier on the players’ bodies, but if not, upgrade to the premium turf that is now being used at the newer stadiums.”
Others have the same sentiments, but if there’s anything you can’t deny, it is the numbers. Specifically, the NFLPA’s latest report showed that players have a 28% higher rate of non-contact lower extremity injuries when playing on artificial turf.
Only time will tell which option is best for the league. However, as it stands, the Giants are receiving the bulk of the 496 players with a torn ACL since 2013.
