The annual NFL owners meetings are underway in Phoenix at the Arizona Biltmore.
As the league continues to adjust rules to protect players from brain trauma, they are focusing on improving the helmet as a means to lower concussion rates.
Dr. Jeff Crandall, chairman of the NFL’s Head, Neck and Spine engineering sub-committee, explains.
“We hope within a three-year period that all of this research and data will enable the development of a better, general all-purpose helmet,” Crandall said.
Crandall explained that there is a long-term goal of creating position-specific helmets. He points to research from the NFL based on 300 concussive plays from the last two years as well as the previous creation of position-specific cleats and shoulder pads.