Bills to replace grass surface at Highmark Stadium before home opener

The Buffalo Bills are replacing the natural grass surface at their new Highmark Stadium before the regular season begins, following widespread criticism of the field's condition during preseason games. The resodding process is scheduled to start on August 31, 2026, with full installation expected to be completed by the end of the week, ahead of the team's home opener against the Detroit Lions on September 17.

The decision comes after players and officials encountered significant issues with the Kentucky bluegrass field during the Bills' preseason opener against the Carolina Panthers on August 15. During that game, large chunks of sod with roots and dirt attached were torn up, requiring players and staff to stomp patches back into place. An anonymous Bills player stated the field was in poor condition, while others described it as soft and noted visible divots and bald patches forming between the hash marks. The problems were severe enough that an official had to pause the game to repair a divot, and groundskeepers were still working on the surface two hours after the game ended.

Bills President of Business Operations Pete Guelli stated the team is committed to providing the best...