Why are some Steelers players wearing caps on their helmets? A Guardian Cap is a soft-shell padding. The 2022 preseason marks the first time the cap has been worn for all 32 NFL teams.

(NEXSTAR) — NFL helmets have come a long way from the leather caps players wore in the league’s younger days. You may notice the latest advancements while watching games this season.

Both helmets are black with a yellow stripe down the center — but you can see the extra padding on Daniels’ helmet. Pittsburgh Steelers guard James Daniels (78) blocks during an NFL football ...

The Steelers and other teams have been required to wear the caps in practice, but most players still wear traditional helmets. Guardian caps are currently in a pilot program as the NFL attempts to ...

World-renowned UPMC neurologist Dr. Joseph Maroon says the Guardian Cap in a step forward. "Various studies purport a 10 to 20% reduction in the forces generated with collisions," Dr. Maroon said.

Guardian Caps -- which are used as additional head protection over helmets ... Steelers right guard James Daniels might have become the first player to ever wear one in a contest.