Two Colts are among first to wear Guardian caps in an NFL game

INDIANAPOLIS --- Indianapolis Colts tight end Kylen Granson was among the first players to wear a Guardian cap during an NFL game, using the soft-shell padding on his helmet in the Colts season opener against the Houston Texans. Safety Rodney Thomas also wore a Guardian cap during the game.

Five Colts wore the Guardian caps during games in the preseason — Thomas and Granson said they will continue wearing the cap, running back Jonathan Taylor and linebacker Grant Stuard do not plan to wear it during regular season games, and former Indianapolis running back Zavier Scott is now on Minnesota’s practice squad.

Granson has been outspoken about his decision to wear the helmet protection.

“My mom, my parents, they’ve always taught me, from an early age, protect yourself, protect your head,” Granson said. “That’s what’s really important. Your health. … I thought it was the perfect platform to use my voice and use my platform to speak to safety.”

Do Guardian Caps reduce concussions?

According to NFL research, the cap can absorb at least 10% of the force of a hit.

It was difficult to tell which players were wearing the Guardian Caps at first glance; the straps from the coverings can be seen and the helmet looks bigger on a closer look, however.

What are Guardian Caps

Guardian Caps are pads attached to helmets in an effort to reduce the risk of suffering a concussion while playing football.

According to NFL research, the cap can absorb at least 10% of the force of a hit.

NFL players were required to wear them during training camp practices and, for the first time, can chose to wear them during games.

Guardian Cap cost

The NFL is using Guardian Caps' NXT model, according to Guardiansports.com , which are listed for $125 but only available to NFL players and college linemen.

Guardiansports.com , however, sells the helmet covers for football, lacrosse and hockey helmets for $69.99.

This article originally appeared on Indianapolis Star: Two Colts are among first to wear Guardian caps in an NFL game