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(New York, NY) – The NFL is publishing its annual concussion numbers. With brain injury an increased area of focus for football — both in the pro ranks and for youth — the NFL is tracking concussions. And in the 2024-2025 season the league recorded the lowest number of concussions since 2015, which is the first year they were tracked.
During 2024 practices and pre-season games, 182 concussions were recorded. That’s down 17% from the 219 recorded in 2023. The new low does not include 2020’s numbers — because there were no preseason games due to COVID-19. In 2021, 187 were recorded.
The league has taken steps aimed at reducing concussion risk and injury. For example, independent neurologists are now staffed at NFL games to conduct immediate assessment when a player is hit the head, or hits the ground hard — causing the head to hit or snap back.
Also, so-called Guardian Caps can now be worn in games, as well as practice. They’re soft, padded coverings that go over the hard plastic helmet shell — and research shows they are effective in reducing concussions.
