CFL players can wear Guardian caps during games but mouthguards to become mandatory
-
Share on Facebook
-
Share on Bluesky
-
Share on X
- Copy Link
TORONTO — CFL players will have the option of wearing protective soft-shell helmet covers known as Guardian caps during games this season but mouthguards will be mandatory.
The two measures were among a host of health-and-safety initiatives announced by the league Wednesday.
The CFL mandated the use of Guardian caps last year during training camp and all contact practices during the regular season. Their use was required by all offensive and defensive linemen, running backs and linebackers — and Wednesday that was expanded to also include defensive backs and receivers.
Players wishing to use the caps during games will be permitted, following a directive set forth last month by the NFL. According to the CFL, the introduction of Guardian caps and other measures led to a 42 per cent decrease in training camp concussions. But there will be no such choice regarding the use of mouthguards, which are now mandatory. That makes the CFL the first pro sports league in North America to do so.
