(Reuters) – The number of concussions during the National Football League preseason this year was the fewest since tracking began in 2015, the league said on Friday while attributing the decrease to factors like rule changes and improved helmet safety.
There were 44 concussions in preseason practices and games, a decrease of 24% from 2023 and fewer than half the 91 that were recorded in 2017, according to NFL data.
“Concussions continue to decrease in the preseason as a result of changes to practices, technique, rules and substantial investments in research that have led to the best performing helmets we have ever seen,” said Jeff Miller, NFL Executive Vice President overseeing Player Health and Safety.
“There is more work to do, but player safety is advancing, and we hope to see this trend continue this season.”
Other preseason findings showed there was continued progress in the reduction of lower-extremity injuries.
ACL tear injuries remained lower than the nine-season average, while Achilles rupture injuries were lower than 2023 and comparable to the nine-season average.
The NFL also said the Dynamic Kickoff rule, which came into effect this season, showed promising data as the injury rate on returns decreased by 32%, which the league said is more closely aligned with the rate of injuries on run and pass plays.
The new kickoff rule, designed to promote more returns and reduce injury risks, allows only the kicker and two returners to move until the ball hits the ground which means players cannot get off to a running start.
“While there is no finish line in our efforts to make the game safer, the injury data from this preseason is an example of how the league’s deliberate approach to player safety continues to deliver results,” said NFL Chief Medical Officer Allen Sills.
“We’re committed to building a culture of safety around the game, and this preseason was another positive step in that direction.”
(Reporting by Frank Pingue in Toronto; Editing by Toby Davis)
Comments