Ryan Fitzpatrick, former quarterback for the Buffalo Bills, has voiced his support for the team's new Highmark Stadium, reporting that friends who have attended games have offered overwhelmingly positive feedback. This comes despite early criticism circulating on social media regarding various aspects of the $2.2 billion venue.
The new stadium, which hosted its first preseason game and open practices recently, has faced scrutiny over obstructed views, sightlines, and the condition of its grass field. However, Fitzpatrick relayed to Fox News Digital that individuals using his season tickets have described their experiences as "absolutely unbelievable," encompassing everything from parking and entry to food and overall stadium aesthetics.
"Everything that I’ve heard from the experience from parking to walking into the stadium, to the food, the sight lines — it’s absolutely unbelievable," Fitzpatrick said. "I’m excited to get my own eyes on it and get my own experience of it."
While the new stadium's seating capacity is 10,000 fewer than the previous venue, Fitzpatrick believes this reduction to 60,000 seats will enhance the game-day atmosphere. He suggested that the more intimate setting, combined with a canopy designed to amplify sound, will make the stadium feel louder and more intimidating for opponents.
Fitzpatrick is scheduled to experience the stadium firsthand on September 17, when he will be in Buffalo with the Prime Video "Thursday Night Football" crew for the Bills' home opener against the Detroit Lions.
Addressing concerns about the playing surface, some initial reports from anonymous players described the grass field as "a-- right now," though linebacker Dorian Williams offered a more moderate assessment, stating, "The grass looked good. It was cool... A couple spots kind of chunked up a little bit, but it’s better than playing on turf."
Fitzpatrick also discussed his partnership with VRST, an activewear brand from DICK'S Sporting Goods, highlighting the brand's performance and style for his busy lifestyle, which includes family duties and travel for his broadcasting work.