The NFL is launching a new HealthTECH Challenge focused on improving facemasks in football helmets. The league announced this initiative at the Super Bowl innovation summit, aiming to reduce concussions. This challenge invites inventors, engineers, and companies to develop better impact protection and design for helmets, specifically targeting the facemask component.

This move comes as data shows a concerning trend. Facemask impacts caused 44% of in-game concussions last season, up from 29% in 2015. The NFL has made strides in helmet shell and padding safety, but the facemask remains a vulnerable area. Winning entries will receive up to $100,000 in funding and expert support.

This is a continuation of the NFL's ongoing efforts to prioritize player safety. The league has previously invested in helmet technology, rule changes, and concussion protocols. This new challenge reflects the commitment to innovation, with the goal of reducing head impacts and improving the overall safety of the game.

What's next? The NFL will evaluate submissions and potentially integrate winning designs into helmets used by players. The goal is to see a reduction in concussion rates. This demonstrates the NFL's commitment to continuous improvement in player safety through technological advancements and research.