Vikings Switching to Turf with Better Injury Data
U.S. Bank Stadium, home of the Minnesota Vikings, will be replacing its playing surface with a version of artificial turf that has better injury data. The Minnesota Sports Facilities Authority (MSFA) approved a $1.3 million bid for the project, and the work will begin in February and be ready for the 2024 season. The Vikings will also install the same surface at their indoor practice facility.
Minnesota Vikings Making the Switch
U.S. Bank Stadium, home of the Minnesota Vikings, will soon have a new playing surface. The stadium will be replacing its current artificial turf with a version that rates better in injury data. The Minnesota Sports Facilities Authority (MSFA) recently approved a $1.3 million bid for the project. This decision is based on data compiled by the NFL and NFL Players Association's joint surfaces committee.
The new monofilament version called Act Global Xtreme Turf DX will replace the current slit-film turf. The latter has been associated with the highest rate of lower extremity noncontact injuries among the types of artificial turfs used in NFL stadiums. The work is set to begin in February, and the new surface will be ready for the 2024 season.
Vikings Prioritize Player Health and Safety
The Vikings have made player health and safety their number one priority in selecting the new turf. Steve Poppen, the team's executive vice president and chief business administration officer, stated that they focused on the performance of the field and alignment with the MSFA during the decision-making process. The Vikings were heavily involved in selecting the winning bid, along with the MSFA and stadium management company ASM.
Last winter, teams started replacing slit-film turf in their stadiums after the NFL/NFLPA injury data showed a small increase in injuries associated with playing surfaces. The Vikings decided against an immediate replacement to ensure a thorough selection process. This decision was made by vice president of player health and performance Tyler Williams, who wanted to avoid installing a potentially worse field.
Consideration for Grass Field Not Viable
While some have called for grass fields in all NFL stadiums, including those with permanent roofs like U.S. Bank Stadium, the Vikings determined that it was not a viable option during their process. The facility hosts over 200 events per year in addition to Vikings games, making it a multipurpose venue designed for artificial surfaces.
The Vikings will also be installing the same surface at their indoor practice facility, ensuring consistency for their players across both their main stadium and practice field.
