The National Football League (NFL) released its injury data for the 2024 season, revealing a significant decrease in concussions. According to the data, concussions decreased by 17% compared to last season and 12% compared to the average of the previous three seasons.
This decrease builds on the league’s efforts to identify and evaluate concussions more aggressively, with doctors now evaluating 3-4 players for every concussion diagnosis. Other contributing factors include improvements in helmet safety, enforcement of safety rules, and a broader culture of safety.
The Dynamic Kickoff rule, introduced last season, also showed its effectiveness, with returns increasing by 57% and seven kickoffs resulting in touchdowns – the most since 2021. This led to a lower concussion rate (down 43% vs. previous average) and fewer lower-extremity strains on the play.
The league’s chief medical officer, Dr. Allen Sills, stated that “this season’s injury data underscores real progress in our efforts to reduce concussions and lower-extremity strains.” The NFL will continue to analyze the Dynamic Kickoff rule and review its first year of safety initiatives during the offseason.
Health and safety priorities for next season include further analyzing the Dynamic Kickoff, reviewing the hip-drop tackle ban, and reducing avoidable head contact.
Source: https://www.nfl.com/playerhealthandsafety/resources/press-releases/concussions-decrease-to-historic-low-in-2024-nfl-season