Aaron Rodgers Gets Sympathy After NFL Bans His Favorite Helmet
Aaron Rodgers is starting fresh with the Pittsburgh Steelers, but not everything is going his way. The NFL has officially banned his longtime helmet, the Schutt Air XP Q11, a model Rodgers has worn for 20 years.
At 41 years old, Aaron Rodgers is gearing up for another season after signing with the Steelers in free agency. But the league’s updated safety protocols are forcing him to wear a new model, the Schutt F7, and he’s not a fan.
“I can’t stand the [new] helmet,” Rodgers said. “I’ve worn a Schutt for 20 years and somehow it finally didn’t pass the safety standards.”
Sympathy from the Helmet Industry
Even the manufacturer feels for Rodgers. Certor Sports CEO Jeremy Erspamer, whose company makes the F7, admitted he understands the frustration.
“I’m sure it feels like an old friend when he puts it on,” Erspamer told Steelers Wire. “I completely understand from a player’s perspective… We’re always trying to develop new technology, but change is hard.”
Despite the switch, Aaron Rodgers has tested the new helmet in minicamp. Whether it becomes more comfortable over time remains to be seen.
A Soulful Decision to Play On
Aaron Rodgers joins the Steelers after two frustrating seasons with the Jets, including a season-ending Achilles injury just four snaps into his debut. In 2024, his return didn’t revive the Jets, who ended with a 5-12 record.
Now, in Pittsburgh, he cites Mike Tomlin as a major reason for continuing his career.
“That was one of the coolest conversations I had in the game,” Aaron Rodgers said. “This was a decision that was best for my soul.”
Aaron Rodgers may not love the new helmet, but Steelers fans hope he can adapt quickly and help bring postseason success to Pittsburgh. For now, his NFL restart begins with a new team, and a new helmet.
Read More: ‘Read His Resume’: Aaron Rodgers Named Steelers’ Starting QB as Mike Tomlin Gets Candid
