(C)The NFL has approved wearing guardian caps during games

In a significant move towards enhancing player safety, the NFL has greenlit the use of Guardian Caps during regular-season games, the league confirmed on Friday.

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Guardian caps were only used during practice

The NFL’s decision marks a pivotal shift in the league’s approach to mitigating head injuries among its athletes.

Guardian Caps, designed to offer additional protection against concussions and head trauma, have been a staple during practices for non-quarterbacks and non-specialists.

Now, players will have the option to incorporate these caps into their game-day gear, potentially altering the appearance of NFL helmets for the 2024 season.

The approval follows a comprehensive review of data gathered over the past two years, indicating a notable reduction in concussions among players who utilized Guardian Caps during practice sessions.

NFL executive vice president of health and safety, Jeff Miller, underscored the significance of this development, emphasizing the league’s commitment to prioritizing player welfare.

“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,” Miller said.

“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.”

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However, not all players are enthusiastic about the new mandate. Two-time Super Bowl champion, Chris Jones of the Kansas City Chiefs, voiced skepticism regarding the efficacy of Guardian Caps, questioning their impact on player safety.

Jones called the decision the “craziest thing ever”. His full message on X stated “This is the craziest thing ever. These caps make no difference”