NFL Studying Helmet Face Guard That Works Like Surgical Mask
May 20, 2020, 11:18 AM
(Photo by Wesley Hitt/Getty Images)
ATLANTA (AP) — With an eye toward getting back on the field, the NFL is working on a helmet face guard that might provide the same protection as a surgical mask.
Atlanta Falcons president Rich McKay says the issue came up about a month ago during a conference call with the league’s competition committee.
In an effort to protect players from the coronavirus, the NFL is testing new protective face mask prototypes.
The medical director for the players' union says they’re testing breathable coverings for helmets made from the same material as N95 surgical masks. pic.twitter.com/v79pPhYt1R
— TODAY (@TODAYshow) May 19, 2020
Many players already wear visors to protect their eyes. McKay says the new mask would cover even more of the face.
The medical director of the NFL Players Association tells ESPN’s Adam Schefter that league engineers and sports equipment company Oakley are already testing prototypes of the modified mask.