NFL Reports Historic 17% Drop in Concussions for 2024 Season

Improved helmet technology, new kickoff rules, and a focus on safety culture contributed to the lowest concussion numbers since 2015.

The NFL recorded 182 concussions across the 2024 preseason and regular season, marking a 17% decrease from 2023 and the lowest total since tracking began in 2015.
Key safety improvements included the adoption of advanced helmets and the introduction of Guardian Caps during practices and optional use in games.
The new Dynamic Kickoff rule, designed to reduce high-speed collisions, resulted in a 43% drop in concussion rates on kickoffs compared to the 2021-2023 average.
The league emphasized a cultural shift toward concussion awareness, with self-reported concussion evaluations rising to 41%.
Despite progress, NFL officials, including Chief Medical Officer Dr. Allen Sills, emphasized the need for continued efforts to eliminate avoidable head impacts and improve player safety.