By Harvey Hoffman
The NFL is ditching its one-helmet rule starting in 2022, saying in a memo that teams will be permitted to wear alternate-color helmets for the first time in a decade.
The rule was established in 2013 to improve player safety, requiring teams to have only one helmet color so players would practice and play in the same helmet. While teams will now be allowed a second set of helmets, they must be the same make, model and size as the player’s primary helmet.
Additionally, players must have an opportunity to wear them from the start of training camp and during practice during the week before the game.
The rule change opens up throwback jersey options for teams across the league whose modern helmet color is different from older uniforms, including the Tampa Bay Buccaneers (now pewter, formerly white), New England Patriots (silver, white), Eagles (dark green, Kelly green, Reggie White above), Denver Broncos (navy blue, royal blue) and Atlanta Falcons (black, red), among many others.
Teams must inform the league of plans to add an alternate helmet by July 31, the memo said.
