NFL open-field positions at greater risk of concussions: 5 insights

Orthopedic Sports Medicine

The Charlotte Observer gathered data from NFL teams' final weekly injury reports, official NFL box scores and pro-football-reference.com to find patterns in players' concussions.

Here are five insights:

 

1. The data revealed offensive and defensive players in open-field positions were at greater risk of concussions than linemen.

 

2. The researchers found wide receivers and tight ends were among the top positions to experience the most concussions.

 

3. Ninety-three players missed at least one game due to concussive symptoms during the 2016 regular season. Of those players, 59 played in open-field positions.

 

4. Open-field players often tackle at full speed, with their heads.

 

5. Some experts suggested the NFL modify the rules so that players can't target heads when tackling.

 

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