The NFL mandated the compulsory use of Guardian Caps during training camp for all positions in the 2024 preseason. The league also allowed teams to use these safety tools during games for the first time in 2024. We take a cursory look at guardian caps and their use in the NFL.
What Is a Guardian Cap?
Guardian Caps are a soft-shell helmet cover designed to reduce concussions. Invented in 2010, these caps are engineered to lessen the impact of head-to-head collisions.
The Jacksonville Jaguars were the first NFL team to make use of these safety tools in 2020. First mandated in the 2022 NFL preseason on an experimental basis, the league made them mandatory for all positions in 2024.
While the use of these Guardian Caps during games was prohibited for the 2022 and 2023 seasons, the league made a major U-turn by allowing players to sport them in 2024.
“We now have two years of data showing significant concussion reductions among players who wear Guardian Caps during practice, so players will be permitted to wear the cap during games this upcoming season,” NFL executive vice president Jeff Miller said in a statement.
“Additionally, there are new helmets this year that provide as much — if not more — protection than a different helmet model paired with a Guardian Cap. These developments represent substantial progress in our efforts to make the game safer for players.”
Which NFL Players Wear Guardian Caps?
Damar Hamlin and Taylor Rapp will be seen sporting Guardian Caps during the 2024 AFC Championship Game for the Buffalo Bills. Hamlin recently made this decision to sport the safety tool as an added measure.
Colts running back Jonathan Taylor praised the headwear after taking some live snaps with it in Aug. 2024. Though he didn’t wear it during the 2024 regular season, he said it felt the same as his usual helmets. However, other skill position players sported Guardian Caps during its inaugural season, including running backs De’Von Achane and Tyjae Spears.
“The first game I had, it did not feel different,” Taylor added. “It felt like practice. Of course, it was only limited snaps … but so far, it didn’t feel different.”
Other NFL players have noted concerns like its added weight, which could make them fatigued earlier. There are stylistic concerns as well. Eagles cornerback Darius Slay Jr., who will be in action against Washington in the 2024 NFC Championship Game, spoke on it earlier in the season.
“Oh, I can’t stand them. It impacts my swag. My game is part of my swag. If I ain’t looking the part, I can’t feel the part. They have me looking very ugly out there with that big ol’ cap on the head.”
