The Cowboys and Ravens Should Refuse to Play in Rio if the Field Is Not Safe

The NFL wants to continue expanding internationally. But if a playing surface isn't safe, should the players be expected to take the field anyway?

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Ahead of Cowboys-Ravens in Rio de Janeiro, concerns surrounding the playing surface have put player safety at the center of the conversation. NFLPA Executive Director J.C. Tretter says players “shouldn’t have to overcome the field” and that international growth cannot come at the expense of the standards NFL players deserve.

On Straight Facts Homie, the argument is simple: if Cowboys and Ravens players genuinely believe the field isn't safe, they should stand their ground and refuse to play. Force the NFL's hand. The league has dealt with unacceptable playing surfaces before, and no international expansion should require players to accept conditions they believe put them at unnecessary risk.

The NFL's global ambitions aren't slowing down. But as international games become an increasingly important part of the league's future, the standard for player safety shouldn't change depending on where the game is played.

Plus, we get into the NFL fining Kyle Juszczyk and Jake Ferguson for celebrations that could be interpreted as drinking beer, despite the league's extensive relationships with beer sponsors.

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