New York Jets quarterback Aaron Rodgers prepares during training camp. He’s been practicing with the Schutt Air XP Pro VTD II helmet. Rodgers has been very vocal about his displeasure with the new headgear. He is not happy about it and has not been shy about letting his displeasure be known. In all fairness, he had the Schutt Air XP Pro Q11 LTD helmet last season. It was subsequently banned for failing to meet the new safety requirements.
At June’s minicamp, Rodgers was vocal about the inconvenience of switching helmets. He remarked on the appearance of the new helmet, saying, “It looks like a damn spaceship out there.” Nobody feels as deeply about the transition as he does. Learning to operate the new piece of equipment is an overwhelming challenge for him.
Rodgers has been fit for Schutt helmets for the better part of his 20 plus year career. His decades-long loyalty to the brand highlights how much he’s attached to familiar equipment. Now he’s grappling with the changes that come with the new helmet rules, which have him shaken up.
Action shot of Aaron Rodgers at the New York Jets training camp. He stated, “I’m still just taking it day by day, week by week and doing what I can to stay ready so I don’t have to get ready.” This mentality is reflected in his determination to stay in top shape as he adapts to life’s transitions.
He’s turning to Coach Tomlin for guidance on his injury and return to the playing field. Upon further review, there is no indication that Rodgers requires surgical intervention or will be sidelined for an extended period to address helmet-related concerns. Instead, his complaints speak to the deep annoyance with the equipment switch that might ruin his effectiveness on the gridiron.
Rodgers’ colorful statements regarding the helmet reveal an intense competitive streak. They bring to light the troubles he goes through to adapt to a more recent safety standard. To this day, he still plays with the Schutt Air XP Pro VTD II. It will be very interesting to see how these adjustments affect his overall gameplay this upcoming season.
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