Players again struggle with Hall of Fame Game field

Thursday was a big day for NFL fans as the preseason got officially underway, with the Houston Texans and Chicago Bears squaring off in the Hall of Fame Game. It also served as an annual reminder of one of the Hall of Fame Game’s most consistent issues — the playing surface.

Players had difficulty gaining traction on the field at Canton’s Tom Benson Hall of Fame Stadium. Never was that more apparent than during a kickoff return in the second quarter.

Houston return man Steven Sims was several yards away from any person and did not seem to be doing anything more than running straight ahead. Still, he fell to the ground.

Texans KR Steven Sims is tripped up by the “turf monster.”

The Hall of Fame game field being an issue feels like an annual tradition in the NFL. pic.twitter.com/lCpu6CQOgI

— The Comeback (@thecomeback) August 2, 2024

While that was the most notable example, players struggling to maintain their footing was a constant talking point during the game.

Tons of players slipping on this turf.

— Ben Devine (@Chicago_NFL) August 2, 2024

This turf making some very athletic folks look very unathletic

— Jordan de Lugo (@jordandelugo) August 2, 2024

The Turf on that field is so bad

— Kurt Benkert (@KurtBenkert) August 2, 2024

Watching players on this turf… I’m very glad the Bears sat starters.

— Matt Clapp (@DaBearNecess) August 2, 2024

Turf monster is leading both teams in tackles.

— Zack Pearson (@Zack_Pearson) August 2, 2024

Fortunately, the 2024 game was not as bad as we’ve seen previously. Despite that, it’s unfortunate that this continues as such a lingering issue at a game that’s long been an annual tradition.