NFLPA's latest data reveals players experienced fewer injuries on grass vs. artificial turf in 2022

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Non-contact injuries across the NFL happened at a higher rate on artifical turf compared to natural grass fields during the 2022 regular season, according to data released this week by the NFL Players Association.

Last year, the league attempted to put an end to the debate by releasing data showing that rates of non-contact injuries to lower extremities were statistically the same on artificial turf and grass.

A majority of players have spoken out on their preference for natural grass over turf. Many NFL athletes argue it is not only safer but puts less of a strain on the body.

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The NFL logo on the field prior to a game between the Green Bay Packers and Miami Dolphins at Hard Rock Stadium Dec. 25, 2022, in Miami Gardens, Fla.  (Megan Briggs/Getty Images)

Player's union President J.C. Tretter wrote an essay noting that the injury rate on natural grass surfaces dropped from 2021 to 2020. Tretter addressed the 2021 data by saying the rates being essentially the same that year was an "outlier."

"Instead of following the long-term data (which is clear on this issue), listening to players and making the game safer, the NFL used an outlier year to engage in a PR campaign to convince everyone that the problem doesn't actually exist," Tretter wrote in a letter posted to the NFLPA website. 

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"In short, last year, the gap — much like the NFL's credibility with players on this issue — was as wide as it has ever been," Tretter added, "proving that (as the NFLPA suspected) 2021 was, in fact, an outlier.