Safety Meets Style: Will NFL Players Embrace the Guardian Cap?
Story by Elijah Coleman. Photo courtesy of The Associated Press and Alex Brandon.
In 2022, the Guardian Cap was mandated during NFL practice as a way to decrease the concussion rate in contact football. In 2024, the Guardian Cap was approved for use during the NFL regular season. Now that these safer helmets are approved for use, will NFL players adjust to the new helmet, or disregard them because of their appearance?
According to ESPN, “Guardian Caps are large, soft-shelled pads worn over football helmets, with the objective of reducing the risk of concussions and other head injuries during play.” These helmets can absorb at least 10 percent of the force of a hit, according to NFL research. Guardian Caps were first introduced in 2011 by Erin and Lee Hanson, with a mission to protect football players by creating a flexible shell for helmets.
According to 2nd Skull, “helmets have been in a state of significant development since their very inception for protection in different sports, military applications, and construction. The modern football helmet was developed back in the 1930s to reduce injuries, but these traditional designs more often than not have a lack of cushioning. Furthermore, according to Guardian Sports, “Guardian Caps are an innovative addition, made from soft energy-absorbing foam material that encapsulates the hard shell of traditional helmets. This outer layer allows for better dissipation of the impact forces and, therefore, reduces the rate of concussions because of the absorption and spreading of the energy generated from impacts, hence making them invaluable tools in ensuring player safety. “
Despite the benefit of protection from brutal hits, players still have complaints about the new technology. Although the Guardian Cap weighs less than 7 ounces, many players argued that it was heavy, hot, and uncomfortable to wear. Jarran Reed, a defensive tackle for the Seattle Seahawks, stated that he hates them. He went on to say, “I understand the safety for them, but I’ve been playing for a long time. It just looks crazy to me. I don’t like them. I’m ready to take them off.” Defensive back Darius Slay agreed telling CBS Sports, “I can’t stand them, it impacts my swag.” Based on the comments by these two players, it is clear that NFL players are choosing not to wear the Guardian Cap primarily because they don’t like how it looks.
As an NFL fanatic, I am a huge supporter of the change. Players deserve to be safe while playing this dangerous, yet beloved, American sport. This new helmet lowers the risks of concussions and traumatic brain injuries and it overall improves player safety. However, it is also vital to incorporate the feedback of players in safety strategies and equipment developments. I would recommend that the NFL create customizable Guardian Caps that can guarantee comfort for all players interested in wearing them, while also addressing their concerns about the cap’s appearance. It’s important to allow athletes to engage in creating innovative solutions that address their concerns. Ultimately, by elevating an integrative approach to safety and welfare, we could enhance the sport and enable players to pursue their passion without compromising their health.
Elijah Coleman is a senior at Friendship Tech Prep Academy.