3 days ago
Aaron Rodgers debuts Schutt Air XP Pro VTD II helmet after NFL bans his old gear
(Image Source - Getty Images)
Pittsburgh Steelers quarterback Aaron Rodgers has arrived at the training camp field donning a new piece of gear: the Schutt Air XP Pro VTD II helmet, equipped with a custom F7 pro facemask.
This marks a significant transition for the All-Pro player, who had to abandon his former helmet after the
NFL
banned it prior to the 2025 season. The information was first revealed through a post from @_MLFootball on X, which announced, "NEWS: #Steelers All-Pro quarterback Aaron Rodgers is using a new helmet this season.",
Why Aaron Rodgers' new helmet still falls in the NFL's yellow safety category
Aaron Rodgers has switched to a new helmet, the Schutt Air XP Pro VTD II, which combines a sense of familiarity with compliance to NFL regulations.
It features a custom F7 pro facemask, crafted to mirror elements of his previous gear while still meeting the league's safety standards. NFL insider Mike Garafolo pointed out this change on X, explaining that Rodgers opted for this helmet after trying out several others, as it's "closer in design to his old one.
" Although it's not listed among the NFL's top-recommended helmets, it is categorized as "yellow," meaning it's "not recommended but allowed"; this legal option lets Rodgers keep some comfort while playing.
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The switch wasn't a personal decision. Rodgers' old helmet, the Schutt Air XP Q11, was one of seven models that the NFL banned this offseason. Each year, the league, in collaboration with the NFL Players Association, carries out a helmet performance and safety study to assess equipment based on lab tests and concussion statistics.
Helmets that don't meet the new safety standards are gradually removed, going from 'not recommended' to 'prohibited.'
The Schutt Air XP Q11, which was allowed in the past despite mediocre ratings, didn't pass the safety tests this year.
Aaron Rodgers criticizes new helmet after two decades with Schutt
Aaron Rodgers has made it clear that he's not happy. At a press conference during the Steelers' minicamp, he expressed his frustrations to the reporters, stating, "I can't stand the [new] helmet. I've worn a Schutt for 20 years and somehow it finally didn't pass the safety standards".
His journey to the Schutt Air XP Pro VTD II wasn't straightforward, he first tested the Schutt F7 Pro, a highly rated model, but found it lacking.
'I can't stand the helmet,' he talked again about the F7 Pro before transitioning to the Air XP Pro VTD II during training camp. While it's not the best option, it gives him a vibe similar to his old Q11, blending familiarity with adaptability.
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With training camp going strong and the 2025 season about to kick off in September, Rodgers has the chance to break in his new Schutt Air XP Pro VTD II. He's decided on it for the moment, but his initial concerns hint that he may need some time to adapt.
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