NFL players are intensifying their push for natural grass playing surfaces, fueled by the recent FIFA World Cup. Ahead of the World Cup final at MetLife Stadium, numerous players, including Caleb Williams and Laremy Tunsil, used the hashtag #WorthTheCost on social media to advocate for the switch. MetLife Stadium, like several other NFL venues, temporarily installed grass for the World Cup.

Players like Zaire Franklin emphasized the physical toll of artificial turf, stating, "The cost of doing nothing is paid for by players' bodies." The NFL Players Association (NFLPA) has been vocal, releasing a statement highlighting that all 11 NFL stadiums hosting World Cup matches installed natural grass at FIFA's request. Seven of these venues typically use synthetic turf for NFL games.

The NFLPA criticized owners for prioritizing soccer players over NFL athletes, asserting that the capability, expertise, and resources for high-level grass fields exist. They pointed out that 92% of NFL players prefer natural grass and deserve the same commitment to quality surfaces as international athletes. Tight end George Kittle also publicly supported grass fields, citing player well-being and the feasibility demonstrated by the World Cup installations.