Vikings Changing Turf at U.S. Bank Stadium for 2024 Season
In early 2024, the artificial turf at U.S. Bank Stadium will be changing to a version that has better injury data than the current playing surface. The stadium will go from a slit-film turf to a monofilament surface, with the project set to be completed well in time for the next NFL season.
The Minnesota Sports Facilities Authority approved a $1.3 million bid from Texas-based company Act Global for the turf replacement project at its latest meeting on Thursday.
Slit-film turf — which is only still in use at U.S. Bank Stadium, Paycor Stadium (Cincinnati), and Lucas Oil Stadium (Indianapolis) this season — was shown by NFL and NFL Player's Association data to be associated with a slightly higher risk of non-contact leg injuries. Some stadiums replaced theirs last winter ahead of the 2023 season. The Colts are also planning on replacing their turf next year.
In a Week 5 game against the Colts this season, Vikings superstar wide receiver Justin Jefferson suffered a non-contact hamstring injury on the U.S. Bank Stadium turf. Two weeks later, 49ers tight end George Kittle complained about the turf after a game in Minneapolis, saying "it’s very springy, but it’s basically cement."
The Vikings looked into the idea of installing a grass surface at the stadium, but found that was not viable due to its multipurpose usage.
The turf will also be replaced on the Vikings' indoor practice field at their headquarters, TCO Perfomance Center in Eagan.
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