Fans divided as NFL makes unexpected, controversial rule change that will affect the game for decades to come

The NFL announced a stunning rule change during the league’s annual draft.

For years, the league has attempted to increase player safety while still allowing top-notch action on the field in an inherently aggressive — and often dangerous — sport.

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The rules governing kickoffs and onside kicks have changed dramatically in recent years as the NFL has gradually improved its handling of head injuries and concussions.

But an unexpected change announced during the draft is by far the biggest rule change yet.

The NFL will authorize the use of “Guardian Caps” during the upcoming 2024 season.

Heavily padded caps cover NFL helmets – and have been the butt of a joke on social media since they were revealed.

The protective helmet was required for players at certain positions during training camp for the 2022 and ’23 seasons.

The caps – which protect the head during violent helmet-to-helmet collisions – were also required to be worn during practice by players who were not QBs or kickers.

But until now, Guardian Caps weren’t allowed in real NFL games.

While some fans have applauded the league for allowing players to protect themselves more, others think it’s a step too far and will create a laughable look for the NFL.

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“Coming soon: flag football,” one fan tweeted.

“Yet can they be less ugly?” » posted a second fan.

“This is going to ruin the game,” wrote a third fan.

“How are people upset about players trying to protect their brains?” » asked a fourth fan. “If it helps, it’s a good idea.”

There’s no doubt that Guardian Caps look nothing like the normal NFL helmets or general uniforms that have helped make this sport the greatest in America.

They can also seem like an April Fool’s joke delivered at the wrong time.

Seeing a goalie cap placed on Patrick Mahomes or Travis Kelce will shock football fans who are previously unfamiliar with protective padding and why it is used.

While fans love the action and drama on the NFL field, they also love the overall look and cool “vibe” of the game.

There’s never been a look like Guardian Caps before in a real NFL game.

It’s up to the players to decide whether they will use them.

If they do, social media will be sharply divided again.

NFL Executive Vice President Jeff Miller said the Guardian Caps contributed to a nearly 50 percent reduction in concussions for position groups.

“We now have two years of data showing a significant reduction in concussions in players who wear Guardian Caps during practices, so players will be allowed to wear the cap during games this upcoming season,” Miller said at ESPN.

“Additionally, this year, new helmets 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 .”