The NFL Shifts Blame to Another Gear as Concussions Rise Despite Banning 7 Helmet Models
The National Football League (NFL) has always been known for its intense and physical nature. With players pushing their bodies to the limit every game, it’s no surprise that injuries are a common occurrence. However, one particular injury has been gaining more attention in recent years – concussions.
Despite implementing new safety measures and banning certain helmet models, the number of concussions in the NFL continues to rise. In the 2025 season, there was an all-time high of 538 concussion checks during games, along with 26 medical breaks. This is a concerning issue that needs to be addressed immediately.
Concussions are a type of traumatic brain injury that occurs when the brain hits against the skull, causing a disruption in its normal function. They can have serious consequences, both short-term and long-term, for the players involved. Symptoms can range from headaches and dizziness to memory loss and even permanent brain damage.
The NFL has been under fire for its handling of concussions for years. In 2011, a class-action lawsuit was filed by thousands of former players who accused the league of hiding the dangers of concussions and not providing proper care and support. As a result, the NFL has taken steps to improve player safety, including implementing a concussion protocol and introducing new helmet safety standards.
Last year, the league banned seven types of helmets that did not meet the safety standards set by the NFL and the National Operating Committee on Standards for Athletic Equipment (NOCSAE). These helmets were deemed to be less effective in protecting players from concussions and other head injuries. However, despite this ban, the number of concussions has continued to rise.
This has led to many questioning the effectiveness of the new safety measures and the banning of certain helmet models. Some have even accused the NFL of shifting the blame to the players and their equipment rather than taking responsibility for the issue at hand.
The NFL has defended its actions, stating that the rise in concussions is due to players not properly using their helmets or violating the concussion protocol. They have also pointed out that the number of concussions is still relatively low compared to the number of players in the league.
While it is true that players need to take responsibility for their own safety, it is also the league’s responsibility to provide them with the best possible equipment and safety protocols. The fact that the number of concussions is still increasing despite the ban on certain helmets raises questions about the effectiveness of the safety measures in place.
It is also worth noting that the NFL has a long history of downplaying the risks of concussions and not taking proper care of players who suffer from them. This has led to a lack of trust between the players and the league, making it difficult for the NFL to address the issue effectively.
In order to truly tackle the issue of concussions in the NFL, both the players and the league need to work together. The players must take their own safety seriously and follow the concussion protocol, while the NFL must continue to improve its safety measures and address the concerns raised by players and experts.
The NFL has made progress in recent years in terms of player safety, but there is still a long way to go. The rise in concussions despite the banning of certain helmets is a clear indication that more needs to be done. The league must continue to invest in research and development to improve helmet safety and implement stricter protocols to ensure the well-being of its players.
In conclusion, the NFL is facing a concerning issue with the rise in concussions despite new safety measures and the banning of certain helmet models. While the league has taken steps to address the issue, more needs to be done to truly protect the players. It’s time for the NFL to take responsibility and work towards finding a solution to this ongoing problem. The players’ safety should always be the top priority, and it’s up to the league to ensure that they are properly protected on the field.
