FLORHAM PARK, N.J. — New York Jets coach Robert Saleh expressed concern over the new Guardian Cap, saying the protective shells are causing players to use their helmets more than usual — and he's worried about the potential effects when they are removed later in the preseason. «I think the spirit of it all is really good.
It's got great benefits… but I do think there's a balance in everything, right?» Saleh said Saturday after practice. «Too much of anything is a bad thing. »I do think because of the soft blow, it's kind of lending the players to use their heads a little bit more.
I do think the first time when they take it off — anybody who has played football knows the first time you take your helmet off or you hit with the helmet or you have a collision, there's a shock.
I do think that if you're waiting until the first game for that shock to happen… I don't know, time will tell. It's just interesting with those Guardian Caps and what exactly are we trying to accomplish." Offensive and defensive linemen, tight ends and linebackers are required to wear the Cap through the week of the second preseason game.