Players from the Pittsburgh Steelers and Cleveland Browns both expressed outrage to the NFL Players’ Association over the condition of Acrisure Stadium’s playing surface during the Steelers’ 23-9 victory against the Browns in Week 6, as reported by ESPN. Players reported poor conditions, with the grass field described as dry, and many noted that they were kicking up chunks of the field during play.

The field’s conditions visibly affected the game; notably, Steelers kicker Chris Boswell missed a field goal attempt in the fourth quarter after slipping on the turf and the team also lost special teams player Miles Killebrew to a significant non-contact knee injury due to the turf.

Steelers coach Mike Tomlin acknowledged the deficient playing conditions, stating that the field was recognized as poor with a replacement schedule already set for after the game. Acrisure Stadium’s field, which is also used by the University of Pittsburgh, was planned for a re-sod following the match.

“The conditions at Acrisure Stadium underscore why players have pushed for high-quality grass fields, and the NFLPA continues to advocate for improved maintenance practices across the league,” stated an NFLPA representative.

Amid this concern, NFL spokesperson Brian McCarthy announced that steps have been taken to replace the playing surface.