Malik Nabers, the latest victim of MetLife Stadium
The Giants’ wide receiver reportedly suffered a torn ACL against the Chargers, adding his name to a growing list of injuries at the venue.
Malik Nabers may be the newest player to fall victim to MetLife Stadium - a venue many around the NFL believe is cursed. The Giants’ wideout left late in the second quarter of Sunday’s game against the Chargers after coming down awkwardly while trying to haul in a pass from quarterback Jaxson Dart.
Nabers was visibly in pain as he limped off the field, and early reports fear a torn ACL in his right knee. If confirmed, it would put him in a long and troubling line of players who have suffered similar injuries at MetLife.
Since 2020, at least 15 NFL players have torn ligaments on that turf, including stars like Aaron Rodgers, Kyle Fuller, Sterling Shepard, and Nick Bosa.
What’s behind the injuries at MetLife?
The question has lingered for years: Is it bad luck, or is there something about the field itself? MetLife currently uses artificial turf, which has long drawn criticism from players who say it doesn’t respond the same way as grass and can worsen injuries. It also wears down faster, especially after non-football events like concerts.
The current surface, FieldTurf Core, underwent extensive durability testing at Penn State’s Sports Surface Research Center, according to ESPN. Still, concerns remain - and changes could be coming soon. Reports suggest MetLife Stadium is expected to switch to natural grass as early as next year, in preparation for hosting the FIFA World Cup final.
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