Hines Ward Suggests Removing Helmets from NFL

[Rek]

http://profootballtalk.nbcsports.com...he-helmet-off/

When I clicked the link I was rolling my eyes but.. it's an interesting idea once you think about it. What do you guys think?

[SDFanInUK]

Here's what my take on it is. While I was stationed in the UK, I watched some of the rugby games that were on. I noticed that these big guys would use more of their upper body to make initial contact to bring the ball carrier down. I know that having pads on allows for more reckless and vicious hits, but these rugby guys still knock each other around pretty good with (or at least from games I watched) little to no head/neck injuries.

I, too, am all for player safety in the NFL, they need to take a look at all options, and a helmetless league is one of those options. Probably not a favorite option, but an option nonetheless.

[WootMonkey]

I've thought of this too.

All the padding lets the players use their body as a weapon.

They can goto something like this:

[Bigbirdsd]

I wonder what the concussion ratio is in Rugby compared to the NFL? I think the initial helmet contact is major, but the secondary contact of the back of the head to a knee or the ground is just as bad.
The fluid around your brain keeps it suspended, the initial contact makes the brain and when the the head hits the ground the brain move is pressing against the inside of the skull causing damage.

[LongTimeOCBolts]

Originally Posted by Rek

http://profootballtalk.nbcsports.com...he-helmet-off/

When I clicked the link I was rolling my eyes but.. it's an interesting idea once you think about it. What do you guys think?

I've been saying that for a while. It's been advocated by a couple of well-known neurologists who treat the football-related concussions.

Guys would simply tackle with body and arms, rather than launching helmet first, thinking they are invincible, and using the helmet as a weapon.

[thumper300zx]

It would kill football -- buy hey, it works for the Aussies and New Zealanders.

[RIPgriggs]

Originally Posted by Bigbirdsd

I wonder what the concussion ratio is in Rugby compared to the NFL? I think the initial helmet contact is major, but the secondary contact of the back of the head to a knee or the ground is just as bad.
The fluid around your brain keeps it suspended, the initial contact makes the brain and when the the head hits the ground the brain move is pressing against the inside of the skull causing damage.

i seen this on sports science,

do you have a link to this? i always wanted to see it again.

[LongTimeOCBolts]

Originally Posted by thumper300zx

It would kill football -- buy hey, it works for the Aussies and New Zealanders.

I liked "Leatherheads".

[Bigbirdsd]

No link to injury, but I think NFL guys need to wear their helmets to keep the hair out of their eyes.

[chargertom]

Taking away helmets and shoulder pads would lead to less violent collisions, and probably reduce overall head and neck injuries. The players wouldn't be so quick to lead with their heads, and would use proper technique when wrapping up and tackling.

Of course, it would also slow the game down, and take away most of the big hits that everyones loves to watch.

But on the bright side, you could go to the park any Saturday and see an NFL game live.