Some NFL players are choosing swagger over safety when it comes to the Guardian Cap.
The padded headgear is available for players to use in games for the first time in 2024. However, that doesn't mean every player will take the option, as some like Baltimore Ravens wide receiver Rashod Bateman feel the awkward look of the equipment is a turn-off.
"It messes up everybody's swag on the field," Bateman said, per Turron Davenport of ESPN. "You will never see me wearing that in a game."
Tennessee Titans center Lloyd Cushenberry shared a similar sentiment, stating that the Guardian Cap looks "goofy" but that the safety aspect is notable.