Dallas Cowboys helmets with Guardian helmet caps during training camp at Marriott Residence Inn-River Ridge Playing Fields. Kirby Lee-USA TODAY Sports

NFL makes big equipment change for 2024 season

By Adam Gretz | Last updated 4/26/24

There is a chance NFL players could look a little different during games this season.

The league announced on Friday that it approved using Guardian Caps on helmets during regular season games for the 2024 season. Teams have been using the extra padded helmets during practices in recent years, and the NFL said there is enough data to suggest they cut down on head injuries.

"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 told ESPN on Friday.

"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."

This is what the helmets look like.

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

If the data is as strong as the NFL says, it makes sense that the helmets would eventually be authorized for use in games.

The question now becomes whether or not anybody will actually wear them on Sunday's.

It is one thing for players to wear them during practices during the week when no one is watching and there is no pressure. It might be the type of thing where it takes a couple of players to wear them and get the ball rolling before others are comfortable enough to go with them.

More must-reads: