Historic reduction in concussions in the NFL during the 2024 season

In 2024, the NFL recorded the fewest concussions since record-keeping began in 2015. According to Jeff Miller, the league's executive vice president for player health and safety, there was a 17% reduction in these injuries compared to the 2023 season.

"Today is an important milestone, but not the end of our work. Through improved equipment, rule changes and continued culture change, we will make the game safer and more exciting," Miller said.

The statistics reflect this positive trend. In 2024, 182 concussions were reported, compared to 219 the previous year. In contrast, in 2015, 275 were recorded, a figure that peaked in 2017 with 281. Since then, the implementation of safety measures has allowed for a progressive reduction.

Key factors in the decline in concussions

One of the main changes that influenced this decline was the change in the kickoff rule, which reduced the speed of collisions between players. In addition, technological advances in specialized helmets for each position have improved impact absorption.

Also, the mandatory use of 'Guardian Caps', padded covers, during training and some practices contributed significantly. According to NFL medical director Dr. Allen Sills, "This season's injury data underscores real progress in our efforts to reduce concussions and lower extremity strains."

Impact on other injuries and next steps

The NFL also reported a 48% decrease in lower extremity strains. This is due, in part, to the ban on the 'hip-drop tackle', a technique in which the defender drops his weight on the opponent's hip.

"We are pleased to see that the continued focus on preventing these injuries is paying off and, as always, we will use this data to continue to strengthen our safety approach for the upcoming season," Sills concluded.

With these measures, the NFL reaffirms its commitment to player safety, seeking to further reduce the number of injuries in the future.