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Lifestyle
Noah Cohan, Assistant Director of American Culture Studies, Arts & Sciences at Washington University in St. Louis

New NFL helmet accessory reduces concussions − but players and fans may not be ready to embrace safety over swag

Fall brings football season in the U.S. and, with it, the parade of distinctively decorated helmets that the players wear.

Over time, the shape and size of these helmets have gradually changed, from the leather head coverings of the early 20th century to the space-age plastic domes we’re accustomed to seeing today.

But the visual profiles of some NFL football helmets may change drastically in 2024. The league has approved the in-game use of padded helmet accessories known as Guardian Caps, which, according to the NFL, “can reduce the force from head contact” by up to 20%.

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