Former NFL stars Rob Gronkowski and J.J. Watt share their opinions on the Guardian Cap, a protective headgear optionally worn by players during games.
The Guardian Cap, a soft-shelled headgear designed to minimize head injuries, debuted in the NFL in 2024 as an optional accessory for players. While some have embraced the added protection, others, including former star J.J. Watt, remain hesitant.
Watt, now an NFL television analyst, stated that he would not have worn the cap during his playing days. "If you want to wear it, feel free," he said. "But I mean, if it makes you feel safer, absolutely."
NFL Greats on the Guardian Cap: Watt Shuns It, Gronk Considers It
"Would I wear it? Personally, no," Watt continued. "But everyone gets to choose what they want."
In contrast, former All-Pro tight end Rob Gronkowski expressed a willingness to consider the cap during his playing days. "I would have worn it," Gronkowski said. "It's a good thing. Any extra protection is good."
NFL Greats on the Guardian Cap: Watt Shuns It, Gronk Considers It
Gronkowski's willingness stems from his experience with head injuries. In 2015, he suffered multiple concussions, prompting him to briefly retire. "I had a lot of head injuries," he said. "So I would have tried anything to protect myself."
Other former players, such as New England Patriots defensive back Jabrill Peppers, have praised the cap's added security. "It’s really for those plays where you might not see a guy coming from the side and get incidental contact on your head," Peppers said. "But I don’t really feel anything with it, so I like that a lot."
NFL Greats on the Guardian Cap: Watt Shuns It, Gronk Considers It
Peppers also emphasized that the cap did not hinder his performance on the field. "I’m a hitter, so the more protection I can get, why not? As long as it’s not impeding me or slowing me down, I don’t see why not," he said.
Despite the anecdotal evidence of its benefits, the Guardian Cap has faced criticism from some players who believe it detracts from the aesthetic of the game. Colts tight end Kylen Granson countered this argument, stating that the risk of head injuries should outweigh any cosmetic concerns.
"There’s no amount of aesthetic that could outweigh what a TBI (traumatic brain injury) could do to you," Granson said. "And one of the more unknown things is that not only is it the big hits that you have to worry about, it’s the culmination of a bunch of little hits."
The Guardian Cap remains an optional choice for NFL players, and its usage rate may vary depending on individual preferences and experiences. However, the perspectives of former stars like Watt and Gronkowski highlight the ongoing discussion within the league about the role of protective equipment in mitigating head injuries.
