What are Guardian Caps? How are they used in the NFL? - ESPN

In an effort to reduce head injuries and drive innovation in equipment technology, the NFL has authorized the use of Guardian Caps during games.

Several players, including Indianapolis Colts star running back Jonathan Taylor, began wearing the cap in games during the 2024 preseason. Josh Whyle of the Tennessee Titans chose to wear a Guardian Cap during his first game of the season vs. the Chicago Bears.

Here are more details about the protective headgear.

What are Guardian Caps?

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.

How effective are Guardian Caps?

The cap can absorb at least 10% of the force of a hit, according to NFL research.

Are NFL players required to wear Guardian Caps?

NFL players are required to wear Guardian Caps during training camp practices. They can choose to wear them during games for the first time during the 2024 season.

When were Guardian Caps created?

In 2011, Erin and Lee Hanson started Guardian Sports with a mission to protect athletes by developing optimal sports equipment. They were initially approached in 2010 about developing a flexible shell for helmets.

The founding of Guardian Sports coincided with a Pittsburgh injury law firm suing the NFL over concussions, a first of its kind filing for 120 former players.

The NFL garnered more head injury-related headlines through the 2015 movie «Concussion.» The film tells the story of forensic pathologist Dr. Bennet Omalu, who battled the NFL about suppressing his research on chronic traumatic encephalopathy (or CTE), a debilitating brain disease that can cause a range of symptoms including memory loss.

How have Guardian Caps