INDIANAPOLIS — Indianapolis Colts tight end Kylen Granson has been seen wearing a Guardian Cap over his helmet during the preseason and intends to continue wearing it in the regular season. This extra precaution is aimed at protecting his brain from potential long-term damage.
Granson defended his decision, stating, “At one point people thought seatbelts were f—ing stupid. Why wouldn’t I wear it? Just because it looks silly? I feel like health and safety is more important than aesthetics.”
Following the attention his comments received, Granson further explained his stance in an Instagram video. He and several other NFL players started wearing Guardian Caps in practice after the league mandated them for certain position groups before the 2022 season.
Granson has been pleased with the results so far and believes that now that the league allows players to wear them in games, it is a logical choice for him to enhance the protection of his brain.
In an Instagram post, Granson emphasized, “There’s no amount of aesthetic that could outweigh what a TBI (traumatic brain injury) could do to you.” He highlighted the cumulative effect of multiple small hits on the brain, comparing it to Jell-O shaking.
Despite previously suffering a concussion, Granson stated that he would continue wearing a Guardian Cap even if he had not. He cited the tragic stories of Junior Seau and Aaron Hernandez as reminders of the importance of protecting one’s brain.
Since the introduction of Guardian Caps in 2022, the NFL reports a 50 percent reduction in concussions among players who have worn them in practice.
Ultimately, the decision to wear a Guardian Cap remains with the player. While Granson is in favor of it, some Colts players have expressed resistance due to concerns about appearance. Granson and safety Rodney Thomas II are among the Indianapolis players who plan to wear the additional headgear in the regular season.
Granson emphasized the significance of prioritizing health and safety, stating, “It’s bigger than me. It’s bigger than just looking cool. And if I can do the same things on the field and be safe at the same time, why would I not want that?”
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(Photo: Jeff Moreland / Icon Sportswire via Getty Images)