Guardian caps — large, soft-shelled pads worn over football helmets — are worn by players to reduce the risk of concussions and other head injuries during practice and games, with the ability to absorb at least 10% of the force of a hit, according to NFL research.
NFL players must wear the caps during training camp practices, but they are only exempt if they select models the league or NFL Players Association deem to provide “equal or better protection.”
Mario Cristobal Sets the Record Straight on Miami’s Guardian Caps
At Miami, head coach Mario Cristobal mandated the use of guardian caps during the team’s recent spring game — a move to try and prevent head injuries during practice. And while Cristobal admitted he’s not the most qualified person to discuss the effectiveness of the caps, he emphasized he has the players’ best interests in mind.
“It’s a question more for the medical side of college football in general,” Mario Cristobal said. “I think college football continues to move towards a place where players are protected more and can still play fast and physically. So, that’s a question where I’m not qualified to answer what is best in a game, but I know whatever is best and keeps our players safest, we’ll always find a way.”
The NFL only started using the caps in 2024, but with only a handful of players choosing to wear them, statistics can not yet be reliably measured. So, Cristobal is keeping his opinions on the caps to himself.
KEEP READING: Miami (FL) Football Season Predictions
“Again, I think there might be positive things,” Cristobal said. “But the data — it’s hard to tell. It’s hard to say what is what without taking a cohort with them, without them. So, I’d love to answer your question but I just don’t have the information.”
College Sports Network has you covered with the latest news, analysis, insights, and trending stories in college football, men’s college basketball, women’s college basketball, and college baseball!
