NFL prospects flooded the field at Lucas Oil Stadium Thursday for the start of the 2025 scouting combine’s on-field drills. A significant number of players struggled to keep their balance, especially linemen who frequently slipped and slid across the turf. We might soon understand why.

It appears that the turf itself differs from previous years, according to ESPN, as traditional rubber pellet padding has been replaced with an environmentally friendly infill. The new infill is a mixture of cork and coconut husks designed to replicate real grass more closely than artificial turf. This change reportedly results in a slightly slower surface, adding shock absorption and traction, while traditional rubber-pellet turf provides a firmer and more resilient base. Additionally, the new turf requires periodic watering to maintain its characteristics, leading to a distinct experience for the players navigating the artificial grass.

The NFL Players Association had advocated for this new turf material, which is not only linked to the slip incidents seen at the 2025 combine but also the brownish hue of the new pellets.

The adjustment comes a year after Xavier Worthy set a new record for the fastest 40-yard dash ever recorded.

Key takeaways from the combine:

• The NFL must balance player safety and performance with turf adjustments.
• The new surface poses challenges for many players, particularly with balance.

Read more about the implications of these changes along with additional analysis at CBS Sports.