Safety and Consistency in Field Surfaces: NFL and NFLPA Mandatory Practices

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The NFL works collaboratively with the NFL Players Association (NFLPA) through the Joint Surfaces Committee to develop higher standards and establish greater consistency across NFL playing surfaces. The committee, comprised of engineers and experts jointly selected by the NFL and the NFLPA, continuously works toward improving both natural grass and synthetic turf playing surfaces through research, collaboration and the implementation of cutting-edge tools that are helping the league better understand each field and drive the development of fields that play safely and more consistently.

This work uses innovative tools, including the Biomechanical Elite Athlete Shoe-Turf Tester (BEAST), which simulates on-field actions to help inform the development of safer surfaces and footwear; and the proprietary STRIKE impact tester, which measures how much energy is absorbed by the ground when a player steps on it, to measure field conditions before regular-season games.

On December 4, 2025, NFL player health & safety leaders shared an update on the league’s efforts on surfaces, including field performance and safety, and introduced updated official playing field requirements and guidelines in the Mandatory Practices for NFL Playing Surfaces and the Playing Surface Best Practices guide. Beginning with the 2026 season, all clubs will be required to pick from an approved set of metrics and styles for both natural and synthetic fields. By 2028, all stadiums, domestic and international, will be required to comply with the standards outlined in the Mandatory Practices.

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