10 NFL Stadiums That Desperately Need to Be Replaced ASAP

In the ever-evolving landscape of the NFL, stadiums play a crucial role in shaping the fan experience and the teams’ operational success.

Many venues, old and new, face challenges that necessitate renovation or a complete rebuild. Here are ten NFL stadiums in dire need of updates, highlighting the issues they face and the plans in place or under consideration to address them.

10. Empower Field at Mile High (Denver Broncos)

Built in 2001, Empower Field is showing its age. The Broncos’ ownership is considering all options, including relocation, as the stadium lacks modern amenities and faces safety concerns. With its lease expiring in 2030 and high local crime rates, a replacement seems inevitable for this outdated venue.

9. Bank of America Stadium (Carolina Panthers)

Despite a recent $800 million renovation plan, Bank of America Stadium remains outdated. The 28-year-old venue lacks modern amenities and struggles with accessibility issues. With the Panthers’ on-field performance declining, the massive taxpayer investment seems questionable. A fresh start in a new stadium might better serve both the team and Charlotte’s future.

8. FirstEnergy Stadium (Cleveland Browns)

FirstEnergy Stadium, home to the Cleveland Browns since 1999, is showing its age. With outdated amenities and a lack of protection from harsh Lake Erie winds, fans have long complained about the stadium’s shortcomings. The Browns’ recent plans to build a new $2.4 billion domed stadium in Brook Park signal that even the team recognizes the need for a major upgrade.

7. Paycor Stadium (Cincinnati Bengals)

Built in 2000, Paycor Stadium is showing its age and facing potential lease issues. The Bengals and Hamilton County are at an impasse over renovations, with accusations of lease violations on both sides. A $1.25 billion makeover has been proposed, but funding remains uncertain. The stadium’s future hangs in the balance as negotiations continue.

6. MetLife Stadium (New York Giants/Jets)

Despite being relatively new, MetLife Stadium faces criticism for its bland design and poor playing surface. The stadium is undergoing renovations for the 2026 FIFA World Cup, including removing 1,740 seats to expand the field. However, its open-air design and lack of character make it a prime candidate for replacement.

5. Levi’s Stadium (San Francisco 49ers)

Despite being relatively new, Levi’s Stadium has faced numerous issues since opening in 2014. Fans complain about the intense heat during day games, pilots report being blinded by stadium lights, and the atmosphere lacks the charm of its predecessor. In 2025, the stadium will undergo a $200 million renovation, including new video boards and enhanced fan experiences.

4. Highmark Stadium (Buffalo Bills)

Built in 1973, Highmark Stadium is showing its age. With structural issues and outdated amenities, it’s no wonder the Bills are constructing a new $2.1 billion stadium set to open in 2026. The new venue will feature improved sightlines, a partial roof, and state-of-the-art snow removal technology, addressing many of the current stadium’s shortcomings.

3. TIAA Bank Field (Jacksonville Jaguars)

Built in 1995, TIAA Bank Field faces severe infrastructure issues. Over 3,000 maintenance requests were filed from 2021 to 2022, including food service equipment problems and safety hazards. The stadium’s electrical system, including 25-year-old emergency generators, is a major concern. A $1.4 billion renovation is planned, with completion expected by 2028.

2. Soldier Field (Chicago Bears)

Built in 1924, Soldier Field is the NFL’s oldest stadium and its smallest, with a capacity of just 61,500. The Bears plan to replace it with a $4.2 billion domed stadium by 2028, featuring expanded seating and modern amenities. The new venue will be capable of hosting Super Bowls and NCAA Final Fours.

1. FedEx Field (Washington Commanders)

Despite recent $75 million upgrades, FedEx Field remains plagued by infrastructure issues and poor fan experience. The Commanders’ lease expires in 2027, and the team is actively exploring options for a new stadium. In August 2024, the venue was renamed Northwest Stadium following a new naming rights deal.