Report: NFL Could Force Bears To Use FieldTurf
(CBS) Not that the league would, but technically the NFL has the power to force the Bears to install FieldTurf at Solider Field, according to Pro Football Talk.
The report cites the NFL Game Operations Manual, which says: "Each home club is responsible for having the playing surface of its stadium well maintained and suitable for NFL play. The League may require improvements to ensure compliance and such improvements will be at the Club's expense. Failure to maintain a playing field properly is considered a competitive issue and clubs that fail to do so may be subject to discipline."
Bears Chairman George McCaskey said this week the team will stick with grass because they deem it safer, but others believe the Bears are reluctant to switch because they consider the field to be an advantage. That's where the phrase "competitive issue" comes into play, according to Pro Football Talk's Mike Florio.
"Clearly, it's about giving the Bears an edge, and an unfair edge," Florio writes. "For that reason alone, the NFL should immediately order the Bears to install FieldTurf."
