San Francisco 49ers Resolved on Practice Field Issue Ahead of Super Bowl 58
The San Francisco 49ers have resolved the issue surrounding the condition of the practice fields they are scheduled to use ahead of Super Bowl 58. Reports had surfaced claiming that the 49ers were dissatisfied with the fields, which were not firm enough due to the installation of two natural grass fields on top of artificial turf. However, the team has now confirmed that there is no feasible alternative and they will proceed with their practice sessions as planned.
The concerns were initially raised by the 49ers logistics team, including members of the equipment staff and grounds crew, during a visit to UNLV, where the practice fields are located. General Manager John Lynch also visited the site to assess the situation. Despite the initial dissatisfaction, the team had a light walkthrough session on Monday and will conduct a full practice on Wednesday, indicating that they have come to terms with the conditions.
NFL Commissioner Roger Goodell addressed the concerns during his news conference, stating that the fields were “very playable” and had passed inspection that meets minimum standards. Goodell defended the quality of the fields, emphasizing that numerous experts and field inspectors had deemed them suitable for play. He dismissed the idea of the 49ers practicing at the Las Vegas Raiders headquarters, where the Kansas City Chiefs are currently practicing.
The NFL Players Association (NFLPA) declined to comment on the issue, stating that they will address it publicly on Wednesday during a news conference with their new executive director, Lloyd Howell Jr. The NFLPA has been vocal in recent years about field quality and safety concerns. The 49ers’ primary complaint seems to be related to the firmness of the fields, with their preferred level being 70g (units of gravity), while the UNLV fields measured at 50g. The absence of a surface between the sod and artificial turf resulted in a “spongey” feel.
Despite the discrepancy, the 49ers have accepted the conditions and are determined to proceed with their original practice schedule. Changing practice sites at this stage would have been a logistical nightmare and potentially embarrassing for the NFL. The league, worth billions of dollars, should be able to ensure suitable practice fields for its flagship event.
Head coach Kyle Shanahan expressed confidence in the field conditions, stating that he is “not worried at all” and that they improve each day. Tight end George Kittle echoed this sentiment, emphasizing that he has no complaints about playing football in February and being in Las Vegas for the Super Bowl. He highlighted the privilege of being one of only two teams competing at this stage and dismissed any issues.
In conclusion, the San Francisco 49ers have resolved the practice field issue ahead of Super Bowl 58. Despite initial concerns about the firmness of the fields, the team has decided to proceed as planned. The NFL Commissioner and experts have defended the quality of the fields, while the NFLPA will address the matter publicly on Wednesday. The 49ers have accepted the conditions and are focused on their upcoming game.