Indianapolis Colts tight end Kylen Granson has taken a proactive approach to protecting his brain from long-term damage by wearing a Guardian Cap over his helmet during the preseason. He plans to continue wearing it in the regular season.
Granson emphasized the importance of prioritizing health and safety over aesthetics, citing the risks of traumatic brain injuries. “There’s no amount of aesthetic that could outweigh what a TBI could do to you,” he said. “It’s not just the big hits that you have to worry about, it’s the culmination of a bunch of little hits.”
Granson hopes to inspire kids to think that health and safety is cool, saying, “You can do cool things out on the football field and still wear a Guardian Cap. I want my future children to wear helmets when they ride a bike… because there’s no amount of cool that would be worth walking into a hospital room and your child’s in a vegetative state because they weren’t wearing a helmet.”
While some may initially be put off by the sight of a Guardian Cap on the field, it’s hard to argue against a player taking extra precautions to protect their brain. If the caps are effective, they could help players stay on the field longer, resulting in better quality football.
Some might argue that the Guardian Cap could give players a false sense of security, leading them to take more risks. Others might see it as a sign of weakness, preferring players who prioritize winning over safety. However, these arguments seem weak compared to the potential benefits of increased safety.
In reality, it’s hard to imagine being genuinely upset about a player wearing a Guardian Cap. As we get used to seeing them on the field, they’ll become a normal part of the game. And if it means players can enjoy their careers without worrying about long-term brain damage, then so be it.
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