Posted on 04/26/2024 1:35:18 PM PDT by JSM_Liberty
The NFL has adjusted its rules to allow players the option of using Guardian Caps in regular-season games to enhance their protection against head injuries, the league confirmed Friday.
The padded headgear was mandated for players at certain positions during training camp in 2022 and 2023. Speaking earlier this year, NFL executive vice president Jeff Miller said that Guardian Caps have contributed to a nearly 50% reduction in concussions for the position groups that wore them during those time periods.
In a statement provided Friday to ESPN, Miller said: "We now have two years of data showing significant concussion reductions among players who wear Guardian Caps during practice, so players will be permitted to wear the cap during games this upcoming season. Additionally, there are new helmets this year that provide as much -- if not more -- protection than a different helmet model paired with a Guardian Cap. These developments represent substantial progress in our efforts to make the game safer for players."
The current plan is for the Guardian Caps to have team logos on them when worn during games.
The NFL will exempt players from having to use the Guardian Caps during the mandated portion of training camp if they wear one of six new helmet models that the league and the NFL Players Association have identified as providing equal or better protection.
Earlier this offseason, the NFL expanded the training camp mandate for wearing Guardian Caps to players at every position except quarterback and specialists. News of the NFL rule change for game days was first reported by Pro Football Talk.
I always thought that they should go back to leather helmets, because that would force players to tackle properly instead of going for the “SportsCenter Hit”.
Is there such "community?" Where does one find them?
Ugly but gotta protect your head in that sport...no good retiring with millions and no brain left.
My, those are attractive. </Sarcasm>
That’s the logic behind rugby, and not wearing much padding.
yes and while they ar at it remove the face masks or at least go back to a single bar.
“That’s the logic behind rugby, and not wearing much padding.”
No helmets, or scrum caps which are pretty much designed just to avoid cauliflower ear.
Easier to grab for a tackle.
So will they be the Washington team’s new logo?
My father-in-law used a leather helmet when playing for the Lions. He’s dead. Go figure.
Kewl, reactive armor helmits !!!
-PJ
Also, in rugby you’re primarily tackling the ball not the man. If you can keep him on his feet and have your teammates take the ball its far better, then knocking the ball carrier flat with a big hit. When the ball carrier hits the ground even if it’s just a knee the player must release the ball. Therefore, what would be fumbling in American football and ‘bad’ for the offense! In rugby it’s an integral part of the game and more a neutral action. Controlling the ball is what rugby is all about.
“My father-in-law used a leather helmet when playing for the Lions. He’s dead. Go figure.”
My father never even played football and he’s dead. Explain that.
Well at least he didn't miss out on any Lions Super Bowl appearances.
Kick offs, tackling rules and now Guarding helmets.
Rush Linbaugh said this would happen.
5.56mm
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