An increasing number of high schools, colleges, and as is now required in the NFL during practices, are wearing padded coverings on their helmets to better protect the head from possible concussions. The NFL says its players experienced the lowest number of concussions in 10 years. January 31, 2025.
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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.
