**Protection Innovation: Guardian Caps Lowering NFL Concussions**
In a significant step towards player safety, the National Football League (NFL) has announced that it will allow players to wear Guardian Caps during the regular season. This follows the successful implementation of these protective helmets in training camps, where they have led to a substantial decrease in concussions.
**Groundbreaking Concussion Reduction**
Guardian Caps were introduced in training camps in 2022, and since then, concussions have declined by over 50% compared to the combined average of the 2018, 2019, and 2021 seasons. NFL Chief Medical Officer Dr. Allen Sills stated, “We might actually see a Guardian Cap on a player in a game this year.”
**How it Works**
Guardian Caps are designed to reduce the force of helmet-to-helmet impacts. The NFL has reported that when both players in contact wear the caps, the impact force is lowered by 20%. Even when only one player wears a cap, there is a 10% reduction in force.
**Player and Equipment Acceptance**
Players have embraced the Guardian Caps, recognizing their effectiveness in preventing concussions. “The players know the Caps. They’ve seen the data, it works,” said Brendan Burger, equipment director of the Los Angeles Rams. “It’s really become a norm here.”
**Commitment to Player Safety**
The NFL’s commitment to player safety has driven the adoption of Guardian Caps. “We are proud to be a part of improving outcomes for players and grateful to the NFL for their investment in player safety,” said Erin Hanson, Founder and CEO of Guardian Innovations.
**Continued Improvement and Innovation**
Guardian Innovations plans to continue refining the cap’s design and functionality. “We will continue to iterate the Guardian Cap to offer improved performance and aesthetics for the future,” said Hanson.
**Conclusion**
The Guardian Cap is a significant milestone in protecting NFL players from concussions. Its proven effectiveness in training camps has led to its approval for use in regular season games, demonstrating the NFL’s commitment to player safety and well-being.
