NFL to begin requiring players to wear knee and shin pads

Every off-season, a new NFL rule-change comes along that leaves fans torn as to whether the rule is necessary in order to protect players or if it’s simply one more thing that makes professional football less competitive and more soft.

Currently, the NFL is adding a new rule that is sure to spark some discussion. In fact, it already has around the league.

Beginning in the 2013 season, it will be required that all NFL players are to wear protective shin and knee pads; needless to say, the National Football League Players Association is not too happy about the mandatory equipment requirement.

The rule is already in place at both the high school and collegiate levels, and was a part of the NFL’s required uniform at at one time.

Clearly, the league has put the rule back into the rule book in an attempt to make the game safer, cutting down on knee and leg injuries.

When asked about the new rule implementation, NFL commissioner Roger Goodell had the following to say:

“We have raised the issue of mandatory pads for at least three years now. I believe the technology has improved, the pads are far better than a decade ago, they allow better performance and are more protective. Every other level of football uses the pads.”

He went on to say that something is wrong when NBA players are wearing more padding below the waist than NFL players.

But the NFLPA feels that it is a topic that should at least warrant some discussion.

In addition, there are some that feel the players will be concerned that the pads will slow them down.  

So, what are your thoughts? Is it the NFL simply acting responsibly in adding this new rule or should they sit back and just let them play?

The way I see it, it’s a minor uniform adjustment; I think the players just need to go with it and move on.