Colts TE Kylen Granson To Wear Guardian Cap On Helmet During..

Colts TE Kylen Granson To Wear Guardian Cap On Helmet During Regular Season

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Colts TE Kylen Granson To Wear Guardian Cap On Helmet During Regular Season

In a sport as physically demanding as American football, player safety remains a paramount concern.

This focus on well-being is evident in Indianapolis Colts tight end Kylen Granson’s decision to wear a Guardian cap during the 2024 NFL season.

This decision underscores a growing awareness among players about the long-term impacts of injuries, particularly concussions.

(More info from the NFL)

Granson, who suffered a concussion last season, has been vocal about his commitment to wearing the Guardian cap, a move he insists he would have made regardless of his previous injury.

His stance reflects a proactive approach to safety, emphasizing the importance of protecting one’s health beyond just the immediate effects of on-field collisions.

The Guardian cap, introduced by the NFL to mitigate head injuries, is designed to reduce the impact force during collisions.

According to league data, the cap can decrease the force from head contact by up to 10% if one player is wearing it and 20% if both players involved are wearing it.

Initially mandated for use during contact practices, the NFL has allowed its use during regular season games as part of broader efforts to enhance player safety standards.

Granson’s perspective on wearing the Guardian cap aligns with a more significant trend within the league. The NFL has been increasingly attentive to issues surrounding player health, particularly neurological health.

This season, the league has introduced a variety of new helmets, some of which are designed for specific positions and offer advanced protection features that render the Guardian cap unnecessary for those wearing them.

Here is NFL Commissioner Rogee Goodell on the helmet updates:

For Granson, the decision to wear the cap is a “no-brainer,” as he puts it. He draws parallels between the initial skepticism surrounding seatbelt use and the current discourse on additional protective gear in football.

By choosing to wear the Guardian cap, Granson not only prioritizes his health but also sets a precedent, encouraging other players to consider the benefits of additional protective measures.

Here is a video of him explaining more in-depth on why he will be wearing it this season:

The implications of Granson’s decision extend beyond his personal safety. His choice highlights a shifting attitude within the NFL towards a more safety-conscious culture.

As more players opt for enhanced protective gear, the league may continue to adapt its policies to support these decisions, ultimately fostering an environment where player well-being is at the forefront.