The New York Jets’ defensive tackle, Harrison Phillips, expressed support for more natural grass fields in the NFL, with MetLife Stadium being converted temporarily to accommodate this summer’s FIFA World Cup.
An active player representative with the NFLPA, Phillips said players overwhelmingly favored high-quality grass surfaces even though there could be challenges, as it would come down to how the stadiums would be managed by the multiple clubs they house. “It’s very complicated, but players prefer good natural grass,” Phillips reported. He went on to say that it was something Woody Johnson (owner of the Jets) would be willing to implement if the change would help the players’ health.
Johnson was praised for investing in his club’s assets, and he believes the owner will go out of his way to help the players. Meanwhile, quarterback Geno Smith had a stellar Saturday during Jets training camp as the quarterback completed all 11 of his passes during team practices and threw four touchdown passes on a red-zone themed day. His coach, Aaron Glenn, enjoyed how far and where Smith has taken the time in order to improve his play.
“It is good to see that out of your starting quarterback,” Glenn said, “He has worked his butt off to make it to the pros, and he is still learning every day.”
The Jets will head back to work in training camp on Monday after their rest day on Sunday, but will also practice with pads for the first time of training camp. The Jets also made a defensive lineman change on Sunday with Ben Barten being signed and Garrison Grimes being waived.
