The NFL continues taking concrete steps to prioritize player health. The league announced the addition of seven new high-performance helmet models that will be available for the 2025 season, with the goal of further reducing concussions on the field.
“It’s another major step for player safety that lab tests of the new helmets translate into lower injury rates. The helmets are working as intended: we’ve seen a significant decrease in concussion rates among players who use them,” said Jeff Miller, NFL executive vice president.
The results support the strategy. The 2024 season reported the most significant reduction in such injuries since 2021, with a 17% drop in concussions compared to 2023.
The new models are designed with position-specific technology, considering the different types of impacts experienced by quarterbacks, offensive and defensive linemen.
These advances are attributed to biomechanics studies conducted annually by the NFL in collaboration with the NFLPA.
The challenge: Getting all players to use them
Despite the improvements, there’s still room for progress. According to league data, nearly 30% of players do not use this type of helmet, leaving them at greater risk of injury.
“Our goal is to encourage all players to use higher-performance helmets for the 2025 season,” Miller emphasized.
NFL chief administrative officer Dawn Aponte highlighted the key role equipment managers play in guiding players.
“Team equipment staff play a critical role in helping players understand current offerings and working with them to select an option that enhances protection and provides a perfect fit,” she said.
This is another step by the NFL in its commitment to a safer league.
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