The Cowboys will take several cleat options to Maracanã Stadium before facing the Ravens in Rio de Janeiro on Sunday, as the NFL continues reviewing the field. The league has said the game will be played as scheduled.
Kenny Clark, a defensive tackle, said he previously encountered a soft surface that made footing difficult while playing in São Paulo two years ago for the Green Bay Packers against the Philadelphia Eagles. Eagles running back Saquon Barkley changed cleats during that game, and Clark wore shoes with seven studs to improve traction.
Clark said he does not know what the Maracanã field will be like but considers the earlier surface a concern. He also said the Cowboys will play regardless of the conditions.
The Cowboys are scheduled to inspect the field for the first time Saturday. Coach Brian Schottenheimer said players will have multiple cleat choices and can choose footwear based on their individual preferences. NFL Field Director Nick Pappas told The Dallas Morning News that league officials have closely monitored the Rio field throughout the month. No additional details about its condition were provided.
