The NFL isn’t the only organization being accused of keeping secrets about head injuries. Helmet manufacturer Riddell is now being sued by former NFL players for hiding evidence that the helmets were flawed.
Allegedly, the players have discovered decades-old documents proving that the helmets Riddell was making were faulty, but the findings were ignored. They claim that, like the NFL, they also knew about the damaging consequences of concussions and hid them from the players.
The report being referenced – a 1969 study funded by the NFL, the National Institute of Health, and several branches of the US military – even goes so far as to suggest that “the cause of many head injuries is directly related to the design of the helmet” (in particular the then-recent development of the face mask).
Despite these worrying assertions and the conclusion that more research should be undertaken, the suit claims that nothing was done about the study. This newest accusation adds new perspective to the already bleak history of concussion cover-ups in the industry.
*Scientists have no conclusive evidence as to whether or how the reduction of g-forces during impacts reduces the number or degree of concussions and head injuries. GelDefender products provide supplemental padding as well as cooling and comfort benefits when used with helmets and caps. Participants in activities in which head impacts can occur should always use tested and approved helmets for protection. However, no helmet or supplemental padding can protect the user from all serious head or neck injuries that can result from impacts.
