CLEVELAND — The Cleveland Browns announced their new $2.6 billion stadium, scheduled for completion in 2029, will feature an artificial turf playing surface — a shift from the natural grass the team currently plays on.
A club spokesperson said an artificial surface is "very likely" for the new venue.
The decision comes despite the NFL Players Association's longstanding push for natural grass across the league, citing player safety.
The stadium will include a retractable roof, enabling year-round events beyond NFL games — concerts, conventions and motorsports. Capacity can range from 6,000 to 75,000 depending on the event.
The facility can accommodate natural grass when needed. For events such as international soccer matches, the artificial turf could be swapped out — but artificial turf remains the default surface for Browns games.
The Browns are making a business call: operational flexibility and expanded revenue streams over player preference for grass.
