Technology has played a major role in the evolution of the NFL. Technologies like instant replay and GPS tracking technology have helped the league evolve and become the global powerhouse it is today. Moreover, technology has even made it possible for spectators to be better engaged in the game through sports betting. AI and other predictive technology enable fans to understand the NFL odds and make a more decisive bet, boosting their winning.
However, the most significant influence of technology is witnessed in how it has addressed the risks and injury and boosted players’ health in the NFL.
How technology has transformed the NFL
Artificial Intelligence (AI)
To increase player safety, the NFL has welcomed using artificial intelligence. Apart from being useful in predicting NFL odds, AI has been employed by the National Football League to create a digital athlete that can imitate a football player’s life and, presumably, prevent injuries.
This can include data such as safety equipment in use, temperature, and movement kinds. The ultimate goal of such high-tech software is to be able to make detailed estimates for each player and comprehend the consequences of modifications to equipment or regulations.
The concept was outlined by data scientists at the NFL’s engineering partner, who stated that they are using computer modeling to develop injury reconstructions. This enables them to comprehend why this athlete was hurt and then identify what they can do to modify the outcome.
Helmet Enhancements
Although artificial intelligence can assist in identifying potential accidents, not everything on the field can be managed. It is a physically demanding sport. There will be unpleasant collisions at times. Thus it is equally crucial that players are adequately secured by their equipment when such accidents occur.
Tens of deceased NFL players have been diagnosed with chronic traumatic encephalopathy. Due to concussion-related ailments, thousands of former pro football players reached a deal with the league in 2013, and protocols for head trauma have been a significant topic for the past decade and a half.
Football helmet efficacy has increased by leaps and bounds in the twenty-first century. Again, data is the key to progress, and most of it is captured by Radio-Frequency Identification (RFID) tags on safety equipment. This monitors what each player is wearing and collects various data, including velocity and total distance.
In addition to sensors in the helmet, pads and the mouthguard aids in a better comprehension of what NFL players go through during games. This can disclose how much a player’s head moves inside the helmet in terms of time and severity.
This data collection contributes to the advancement of helmets. Even though their appearance is similar, technological improvements have drastically transformed the quality of football helmets. Each year, the top-of-the-line helmets are safer than the previous year.
Finally, position-specific helmets are in the works. This can only be accomplished by being aware of the specific requirements for each function on the field.
The major purpose of the NFL’s player safety program is to decrease concussions and CTE. There has already been evidence of progress, with a significant decrease in concussions experienced between 2018 and 2020 compared to the preceding three-year period.
What do you think is the future of technology in the NFL?
There is no doubt that technology will continue to play a big role in the NFL in the future. We have already seen several teams using tablets on the sidelines to review plays and make strategic decisions. In addition, many players are now wearing GPS-tracking devices during games to help coaches track their movements and performance.
We will likely see even more use of technology in the NFL in the future.
