The Guardian Cap NXT 2.0 has been named one of TIME's Best Inventions of 2026 in the Sports & Fitness category, recognition for the latest evolution of the soft-shell helmet cover that has helped reshape head protection at every level of football.
California’s AB 708, passed unanimously and signed by Gov. Newsom, requires youth tackle football to allow soft-shell helmet add-ons and other safety gear.
With the Guardian Cap 2.0 permitted for in-game use during the 2026 NFL season, we are seeing more and more players wearing Caps in games. Check out the list of players who have made the decision to wear better protection in games.
In 2025, eight college players have taken player safety to the next level, wearing Guardian Caps during gameday.
Chris Olave becomes the third NFL Guardian Signature Athlete, following Texans safety Jalen Pitre, and Patriots wide recieve Romeo Doubs, reinforcing Guardian Sports' mission to make player safety a priority at every level of football.
We have added six athletes to our LOOP Athlete lineup, each repping the next generation of better protection in flag football. Here's who joined the squad:
Guardian Sports proudly served as the title sponsor of the Dee-Mack throwback game where players wore custom designed Guardian Caps.
Romeo Doubs becomes the second NFL Guardian Signature Athlete, following Texans safety Jalen Pitre, reinforcing Guardian Sports' mission to make player safety a priority at every level of football.
Jalen Pitre has partnered with Guardian Sports to become the first Guardian Athlete and advocate for better player protection in football.
The R.I. Shriners outfitted each of the 36 Rhode Island schools with 30 Guardian Caps apiece, ensuring that safety equipment is available to student athletes regardless of a school district’s budget. This donation makes Rhode Island the first state where every public high school has Guardian Caps.
