Section 8: Safety Considerations
Concussion Protocol
The NFL operates one of the most comprehensive concussion protocols in professional sports. Any player suspected of sustaining a concussion is immediately removed from the game and evaluated by the team's medical staff in the sideline medical tent or locker room. Players must pass a five-step concussion evaluation before returning to play.
- Unaffiliated Neurotrauma Consultants (UNCs): Independent physicians are present at every NFL game with the authority to remove any player for evaluation
- Video Spotters: Trained spotters monitor broadcast feeds from a centralized location and can mandate removal of a player showing signs of concussion
- Mandatory No-Return: Any player who is diagnosed with a concussion may not return to the game and must follow the league's graduated return-to-participation protocol
- Independent Review: The concussion protocol is reviewed annually by the NFL Head, Neck, and Spine Committee in conjunction with the NFLPA
Targeting and Defenseless Player Protection
The NFL strictly prohibits forcible contact to the head or neck area of a defenseless player. Defenseless players include (but are not limited to):
- A quarterback in the act of or just after throwing a pass
- A receiver attempting to catch a pass who has not had time to protect himself
- A runner already in the grasp of a tackler and whose forward progress has been stopped
- A kick returner attempting to field a kick
- A player on the ground at the end of a play
Violations result in a 15-yard penalty, automatic first down, possible ejection, and subject to fines and supplemental discipline from the league office.
Guardian Cap Program
Guardian caps (soft-shell helmet covers) are now mandatory for all players during contact practices throughout the preseason, regular season, and postseason. While optional during games, their adoption in practice has contributed to a reported 52% reduction in concussions during practice sessions.
Heat and Weather Safety
The NFL maintains detailed protocols for extreme weather conditions. In high-heat situations, mandatory cooling breaks are implemented, cold water immersion tubs must be available on the sideline, and game officials may stop play for additional hydration breaks. In cases of lightning, games are suspended until the threat passes.
Equipment Safety Standards
The NFL and NFLPA jointly test and rank all helmets used in the league via laboratory impact testing. Helmets that do not meet minimum performance thresholds are prohibited. Players who wear prohibited helmets are subject to fines and may be removed from practice or games until they switch to an approved model.