In a joint press release, the NFL and the NFLPA (the players' association) announced the introduction of new helmets for next season. Totaling twelve in number, according to the press release they will have the advantage of adapting to different positions. They will offer, on paper, a degree of protection not previously available.
Thus, according to the league, five of these helmets obtained during testing “ de better results than any helmet ever worn in the league“. A result which Jeff Miller, the vice-president in charge of player health, welcomes.
“We are proud to see new helmets continue the rapid improvements we have seen over the past decade,” the official explained. “The increasing availability of solutions adapted to the positions occupies a central place in our efforts,” he added.
It remains to convince players to change equipment, which is not always an easy task. The tests, carried out in the laboratory by biomechanics experts, are condensed in posters posted in the locker rooms.
This year, for the first time, there will be 4 posters in total: a general one, one for the offensive linemen, one for the defensive linemen, and one for the quarterbacks.
12 more helmets, and 4 less
The big winner this year is the Riddell Axiom 3D, which sits in first position in the general ranking. But other brands are putting themselves forward. The Xenith Orbit Pro wins among the linemen.
For quarterbacks, it's the VICIS ZERO2 MATRIX ID QB. This is notably the model worn by Patrick Mahomes.
Beyond the incentive, the league uses other arguments to sway the most reluctant. Thus, no fewer than six previously authorized helmets will be prohibited.
According to the press release, however, they presented significant improvements upon their introduction, proof that the requirements are increasing from year to year.
The hope of these new tools is to prevent as much as possible concussions and the development of chronic post-traumatic encephalopathy (CTE), the scourge of the NFL and its players, even if not everyone is disagree.
The list of best NFL helmets 2024
