Sports Business Journal
October 11, 2023
Two Virginia Tech offensive lineman wore Scientifically Advanced Force Reduction (SAFR) ProTech football helmet covers in their recent game against Pittsburgh, the first time multiple Division-I players have done so. A study released by the Virginia Tech Helmet Lab in January showed evidence of reducing concussion risk by as much as 77 percent. Virginia Tech ordered 110 of the polyurethane foam attachments for the 2023 season earlier this year but had only used them in practices. Kaden Moore and Parker Clements, the Hokies’ starting center and tackle respectively, were the two players to don the helmet covers for VT.
Last season, USFL players began wearing SAFR helmet covers during practices. SAFR ProTech has also been approved for game play by the National Federation of State High Schools Association; it is used by programs at the DII, DIII and high school levels.