Grass Is Latest Issue With Bills’ New Stadium

The Bills are currently addressing concerns with the grass at their newly constructed stadium, Highmark Stadium. This $2.2 billion home venue, which opened this summer after three years of construction, is set to host its first game against the Lions on Week 2, September 17. However, the condition of the field has raised questions due to instances of sod displacement during the stadium's initial football events, including two preseason games in August.

Players have also expressed dissatisfaction with the field's current state, with one anonymous player stating "the field is ass right now." The team has confirmed plans to re-sod the field ahead of the September 17 game, with the full installation expected to be completed by the end of the week. The team emphasized their commitment to providing the best possible playing surface for players, stating they monitor the field and all aspects of the stadium to ensure an optimal experience for players and fans.

Despite initial criticism over obstructed-view seats, particularly in the upper deck, Highmark Stadium has attracted substantial crowds. Its opening events, such as the Return of the Blue & Red practice, drew over 51,000 fans, while the team's preseason games against the Panthers and Steelers saw attendance of over 58,000 and 59,000, respectively.

However, these numbers are lower than the Bills' recent preseason game averages, which ranged between 69,835 and 69,462 attendees in 2023 and 2024. The reduced capacity of Highmark Stadium, with a total of 60,108 seats compared to the old Highmark Stadium's 71,000, is a contributing factor to the lower attendance figures.