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Chargers' opening-season game in Brazil just got update fans should worry about

Originally posted on Bolt Beat | By Anthony Miller | Last updated Jun 4, 2025 9:00 AM ET

The Los Angeles Chargers' 2025 season kicks off on Friday, September 5, against the Kansas City Chiefs from Arena Corinthians, also known as Neo Química Arena, in São Paulo, Brazil.

Last season, the Philadelphia Eagles and Green Bay Packers also played on the same field in Brazil for the first time. It was a close matchup that ended in a 34-29 victory for the Eagles.

While it was exciting to watch, there was another aspect of the game that could now impact the Chargers as they play in Brazil in about three months.

Injury update caused by the field should cause concern for Chargers

Green Bay Packers defensive tackle Kenny Clark spoke to the media at OTAs, addressing the foot injury he suffered in the Eagles game, but still played through all season. The Athletic Packers reporter Matt Schneidman shared Clark's response as to whether the field in Brazil caused the injury.

“I ain’t gonna answer that question. Last time I got all the Brazilians on me.”

Kenny Clark asked if the field surface in Brazil contributed to his toe injury that led to offseason surgery:

“I ain’t gonna answer that question. Last time I got all the Brazilians on me.” https://t.co/xGQI5hXkFy
— Matt Schneidman (@mattschneidman) June 3, 2025

At the time of the Eagles-Packers game in Brazil, it was a central talking point, with players slipping on the turf and struggling to get their footing. It's similar to the issues at the New York Giants and Jets' turf field at MetLife Stadium, causing issues because of the field condition.

This presents a whole new challenge for the Chargers when they hit the field in three months. They are going to have to figure out how to get their footing correct on the field and wear the proper cleats to get traction.

Chargers players who could be affected by it include their starting quarterback, Justin Herbert, who suffered a high ankle sprain last year. Although he has recovered, this issue remains a concern for the franchise quarterback. Any player who has dealt with knee, ankle, or foot injuries in the last year should be a concern, including starting left tackle Rashawn Slater, who has had some knee concerns.

It's unclear whether the NFL can intervene and take action, but if the Chargers or Chiefs sustain significant injuries during the game due to the field, the league may need to consider changing venues in the future.

This article first appeared on Bolt Beat and was syndicated with permission.

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