NFL to mandate knee and thigh pads for players

[Renew Deal]

If the NFL has its way, players will be forced to wear knee and thigh pads beginning in 2013. The NFL might not get its way.

The competition committee will discuss the impending rule with the NFL Players Association and there is some expected backlash from players who may believe the additional padding will affect their mobility. The pad rule wouldn't go into effect until 2013 so equipment manufacturers can refine the design for speed and comfort.

Rich McKay, the Atlanta Falcons president who chairs the NFL's competition committee, explained the rule change at an owners meeting:

"There's no downside, they have to add some sort of protection," he said. "In our football system, everyone wears them up to our game. Common sense tells you it has to be safer for (protection against) thigh injuries and knee bruises. If players have worn it in Pop Warner, high school and college ... from a safety standpoint it is time to put it back in."
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http://sports.yahoo.com/blogs/nfl-shutdown-corner/nfl-mandate-knee-thigh-pads-players-2013-193053822.html

[intaglio]

1. It would be better if they were properly monitored

Last edited Wed May 23, 2012, 03:50 PM - Edit history (1)

head injuries, concussions and brain function. IMO knee and thigh pads are just a distraction from the main health issue facing American Football.

[bluedigger]

2. I was under the impression that they were following head injuries with much greater rigor.

It's easy enough to fault them for not doing more, but the facts are that they are studying the problem with far greater scrutiny than previously. There is no reason to delay protecting other parts of players bodies when we know pads can reduce injuries. Progress doesn't have to be revolutionary - sometimes it comes in incremental steps.

[intaglio]

3. Maybe they are for active players, I hope so

but it is the continuing damage after the playing career is ended that is important.

Also from what I recall of the evidence there are still too many unrecognised concussions and no monitoring of players with seemingly non-critical head injuries. It is difficult, there will always be the "I'm OK, Coach," response from players but something simple like an accelerometer fitted to a helmet would be of immense benefit.

I used to enjoy watching American football - not any more

[lastlib]

4. Is this to prevent brain injuries???

[El Supremo]

5. toon >>