NFL Players Debate Use of Guardian Caps for Head Protection

Guardian Caps, designed to reduce head injuries, see mixed adoption in NFL games as players weigh safety against performance.

Guardian Caps, soft-shelled pads worn over helmets, aim to reduce the risk of concussions by absorbing at least 10% of the force from hits.
The protective gear, mandatory during training camps, became optional for regular-season games starting in 2024.
Players like Jabrill Peppers and Kylen Granson advocate for the caps, citing added safety without impeding performance.
Critics, including former player J.J. Watt, argue the caps may affect competitive edge and question their overall effectiveness.
The NFL continues to explore ways to mitigate head injuries, with Guardian Caps contributing to a nearly 50% reduction in concussions during training.