Jonathan Taylor’s Oversized Helmet Creates Stir in NFL Preseason
Jonathan Taylor, the Indianapolis Colts running back, turned heads during his first preseason game with a helmet that appeared larger than most of his teammates’ gear. This buzzworthy look was thanks to a new protective accessory, the Guardian Cap.
Minnesota Vikings linebacker Jonathan Greenard shared his reaction to a social media post of Taylor’s helmet, writing simply, “Ew.”
This attention-grabbing headgear was part of the debut of Guardian Caps in Week 1 of the preseason. While many were fixated on Taylor, the innovative caps are designed to make the game safer by reducing the impact of collisions. These soft-shell pads attach to the helmet and help minimize concussions by absorbing contact during play.
Taylor was one of six players who chose to wear the Guardian Cap during the first week of preseason games. He was joined by Pittsburgh Steelers offensive lineman James Daniels and four fellow Colts: safety Rodney Thomas II, tight end Kylen Granson, linebacker Grant Stuard, and running back Zavier Scott.
“I was just trying it out to see what it’s like,” Taylor commented. “It doesn’t feel any different. The real test is seeing if it gets in the way or if people try to grab at it. The only way to know is to wear it in a game.”
Guardian Caps first appeared in NFL practices in 2020 when the Jacksonville Jaguars introduced them to their team. The NFL has gradually expanded their use, and they have now become a mandated safety measure for certain positions.
NFL Commissioner Roger Goodell emphasized the importance of the Guardian Cap, stating at the annual league meeting in March, “The Guardian Cap has been a crucial advancement, showing significant impact reduction. It has effectively reduced concussions by 52%.”
Guardian Caps: A New Safety Standard in the NFL
Following the 2022 league meeting, the NFL mandated that offensive and defensive linemen, tight ends, and linebackers must wear Guardian Caps during all preseason practices, from the start of training camp to the second preseason game. These positions were targeted because of their frequent high-impact collisions.
By 2023, the mandate expanded to include running backs and fullbacks. The results showed a significant reduction in concussions for those wearing the caps. Guardian Caps have demonstrated a reduction in impact by up to 33%, according to the manufacturer, and the specific caps used by the NFL can lower head acceleration response by up to 40%, a critical factor in reducing brain strain during collisions.
This season, defensive backs and wide receivers have joined the group of players required to wear Guardian Caps during practice. Quarterbacks, punters, and kickers also have the option to wear them during practices.
While the Guardian Caps are currently required, players have the option to opt-out if they choose one of the new helmet models that offer equal or superior protection. These position-specific helmets were introduced last season and were quickly adopted by players like San Francisco 49ers tight end George Kittle, Los Angeles Chargers defensive lineman Joey Bosa, and Kansas City Chiefs quarterback Patrick Mahomes.
Miami Dolphins quarterback Tua Tagovailoa has also opted for a Vicis helmet to prevent concussions, and after using the helmet and learning jiu-jitsu to fall more safely, he completed his first full season in his four-year career.
Guardian Caps Offer More Than Just Head Protection
Aside from their primary function of reducing concussions, Guardian Caps have had an unexpected benefit. Titans coach Brian Callahan noted during minicamp that the padded caps help reduce the impact when quarterbacks accidentally hit their hands on the helmets of offensive linemen. “I’ve seen a couple of saves from those Guardian Caps,” Callahan said. “I’m all for them.”
This additional protection can prevent hand injuries, which could otherwise derail a quarterback’s season, as almost happened with Matthew Stafford of the Los Angeles Rams in 2021.
Guardian Caps and Player Preferences
Despite the safety benefits, some players remain hesitant about using Guardian Caps due to their appearance. Titans tight end Chigoziem Okonkwo and Atlanta Falcons offensive lineman Chris Lindstrom have joked about how the caps ruin their “swag” on the field. Baltimore Ravens wide receiver Rashod Bateman echoed this sentiment, stating, “You will never see me wearing that in a game.”
While the caps may not be winning any style points, safety is a growing concern for many players. As Taylor and others prioritize safety over aesthetics, the Guardian Cap could become a more accepted part of the NFL landscape.