College football and NFL players alike have repeatedly lobbied for leadership to make permanent move from turf fields to grass with every playing surface in the country because of injury. And yet, not much has changed.
Turf fields are still very common on both levels of the sport even though, by the science, grass is safer for the athletes themselves. Vanderbilt linebacker C.J. Taylor is the most recent victim.
A study published by the American Journal of Sports Medicine found that 16% more injuries occur per play on artificial turf compared to grass. The authors also determined that the risk was even higher for non-contact injuries. It is not the only study of its kind to find similar results.
Unfortunately, Taylor is among those who felt the wrath of artificial turf during Saturday’s loss to the Georgia Bulldogs. He made an interception during the fourth quarter and took it back the other way.
As Taylor was pushed out of bounds by quarterback Carson Beck, his foot got caught awkwardly on the turf field, which caused his knee to buckle in a very strange manner. It looked kind of like a baby deer trying to walk for the first time. He could not keep his feet.
The full extent of Taylor’s injury is unknown at this time, but the outlook is grim. He posted on social media saying that it is “God’s plan,” which indicates significant severity.
Taylor also took the opportunity to rip leadership within college football and the NFL. In his eyes, the professionals have made their demands clear. Now it is time for the college athletes to do the same.
When are we going to start listening to athletes and start playing all games on grass surfaces?!! NFL players have stressed it enough…
— C.J. Taylor on X, formerly known as Twitter
Unfortunately, the athletes do not seem to be the priority when it comes to playing surfaces. Turf allows less maintenance. It is easier for the university or organization. Non-sporting events can be held on turf more easily than grass.
However, how many injuries will it take for things to change? Taylor is just the latest turf field injury and he’s had enough.