Does Highmark Stadium Use Grass or Turf?
Having originally opened in 1973, Highmark Stadium is one of the true classic stadiums in the United States.
In this page, we will explain which playing surface Highmark Stadium uses between real grass or turf, and if so, why and how they do it.
Does Highmark Stadium Use Grass or Turf?
Highmark Stadium has always used turf as a playing surface and has been using A-Turf Titan 50 since 2011.
Throughout the stadium's history, two other types of turf surfaces have been used including:
- AstroTurf (from 1973-2002)
- AstroPlay (from 2003-2010)
New Bills Stadium is Expected to Use Natural Grass
Expected to be ready for the 2026 season, the new Highmark Stadium is expected to feature a natural grass playing surface instead of the artificial turf that has been in use for decades.
This news has been very popular with players and coaches as many NFL players have expressed their preference for natural grass surfaces, citing concerns over the risk of injuries and the general feel of the playing surface.
Most recently, quarterback Aaron Rodgers tore his Achilles after only four plays while playing on a turf surface.
Turf vs Grass Debate in the NFL
The topic of artificial turf vs. real grass has been a matter of contention among NFL players and the NFL Players Association (NFLPA) for years.
The NFLPA has been advocating for a transition from artificial turf to natural grass, stating that it is the easiest decision the NFL can make for players' welfare.
This sentiment has been echoed by many players, including quarterback Aaron Rodgers, who experienced an unfortunate injury on a turf surface and likely would have preferred to play on natural grass.
Challenges When Switching From Turf to Grass
Cold temperatures can be challenging to deal with when using natural grass fields as they're more susceptible to the damaging effects of snow and cold temperatures.
Snow can cause the grass to become matted and difficult to play on, while frost can lead to a frozen, slippery surface, increasing the risk of player injury.
This is a large reason why Highmark Stadium has only artificial turf for years, as turf eliminates these issues, providing a more consistent and safe playing environment, even in the challenging weather conditions often faced in Buffalo.
Playing Surfaces Across All NFL Stadiums
Grass Stadiums in the NFL
Among the 30 NFL stadiums, 15 of them use natural grass as their playing surface. Some notable stadiums with grass fields include:
- Lambeau Field (Green Bay Packers)
- Soldier Field (Chicago Bears)
- Arrowhead Stadium (Kansas City Chiefs)
- Mercedes-Benz Stadium (Atlanta Falcons)
- Bank of America Stadium (Carolina Panthers)
- NRG Stadium (Houston Texans)
- Hard Rock Stadium (Miami Dolphins)
These grass fields provide a more traditional playing surface and are often preferred by players.
However, they can be challenging to maintain, especially in regions with harsh weather conditions.
Turf Stadiums
The other 15 NFL stadiums feature various types of synthetic turf. Some prominent stadiums with artificial turf include:
- Ford Field (Detroit Lions)
- Lucas Oil Stadium (Indianapolis Colts)
- SoFi Stadium (Los Angeles Rams and Los Angeles Chargers)
- U.S. Bank Stadium (Minnesota Vikings)
- Gillette Stadium (New England Patriots)
- MetLife Stadium (New York Giants and New York Jets)
- Lumen Field (Seattle Seahawks)
- Nissan Stadium (Tennessee Titans)
- State Farm Stadium (Arizona Cardinals)
Turf stadiums offer certain benefits, such as reduced maintenance costs and improved field conditions in adverse weather.
However, research has shown that artificial turf may lead to an increased risk of injuries compared to natural grass.