NFLPA president JC Tretter on Soldier Field conditions: 'The NFL can and should do better'
Soldier Field's days of hosting the Chicago Bears appear to be numbered as the team plans to build a new stadium away from the city in Arlington Heights.
Despite its history and a $632 million renovation 20 years ago, the stadium may have outlived its usefulness.
On Saturday, Soldier Field came under fire after photos showed the turf covered in divots ahead of the Bears' preseason tilt with the Kansas City Chiefs.
As more photos were shared, this prompted a response from NFLPA president JC Tretter.
After the Bears held practice at Soldier Field this week, several players shared thoughts about the field with Jason Lieser of the Chicago Sun-Times. Kicker Cairo Santos responded, "I've seen better" when describing the field conditions. Meanwhile, defensive end Robert Quinn said parts of the grass will "give a little bit," but "that's just part of Soldier Field."
Earlier this month, the Chicago Bears declined several proposals introduced by Chicago mayor Lori Lightfoot to renovate Soldier Field, including adding a dome to the stadium, costing between $400 million to $1.5 billion.
In September 2021, the Bears agreed to purchase 326 acres of land, where the former Arlington Park horse racing track stands, for nearly $200 million. The Bears have also reportedly hired an architecture firm in March to begin plans for a stadium on the site.
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