Colts TE Kylen Granson To Wear Guardian Cap On Helmet During Regular Season
In the physically demanding world of American football, player safety is a top priority. This focus is evident in Indianapolis Colts tight end Kylen Granson’s choice to wear a Guardian cap during the 2024 NFL season. Granson’s decision highlights a growing awareness among players about the long-term effects of injuries, especially concussions.
To reduce player risk and continue driving innovations in equipment technology, Guardian Caps have been authorized for in-game use this season.
Hear more from @NFL Chief Medical Officer, Dr. Allen Sills: https://t.co/PpqOBxEiHl pic.twitter.com/tXUlAaEDbR
— NFL Football Operations (@NFLFootballOps) April 26, 2024
After suffering a concussion last season, Granson has been vocal about his commitment to wearing the Guardian cap, emphasizing that he would have made this choice regardless of his previous injury. His proactive approach underscores the importance of prioritizing health beyond the immediate impacts of on-field collisions.
The Guardian cap, introduced by the NFL to reduce head injuries, is designed to lessen the impact force during collisions. According to league data, it can decrease impact force by up to 10% when one player wears it and up to 20% when both players involved wear it.
Initially required for use during contact practices, the NFL has expanded its usage to regular season games as part of broader efforts to improve player safety standards. Granson’s stance on the Guardian cap reflects a broader trend within the league, which has become increasingly focused on player health, particularly neurological well-being.
This season, the NFL has also introduced new helmets with advanced protection features, some tailored for specific positions, which in some cases make the Guardian cap unnecessary.
Here is NFL Commissioner Rogee Goodell on the helmet updates:
“We already actually have a helmet that is as safe as the one with a guardian cap.”
NFL Commissioner Roger Goodell talks about the development of NFL helmets on @PatMcAfeeShow ✍️ pic.twitter.com/LnpuTHdo6u
— NFL on ESPN (@ESPNNFL) September 4, 2024
For Granson, wearing the cap is an obvious choice, as he describes it. He compares the early doubts about seatbelt use to the ongoing conversation about extra protective gear in football.
By opting to wear the Guardian cap, Granson prioritizes his own safety while also setting an example for others, encouraging fellow players to recognize the advantages of added protection.
Here is a video of him explaining more in-depth on why he will be wearing it this season:
Granson’s decision has implications that go beyond his own safety, reflecting a broader shift in the NFL towards a more safety-focused culture.
With more players choosing advanced protective equipment, the league might further adjust its policies to encourage these choices, promoting an environment that prioritizes player health and safety.
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