NFL

What NFL positions get the most concussions?

Cornerbacks, wide receivers, and linebackers stand out as the top three positions in concussion vulnerability.

ANDY LYONSAFP

American football is an exhilarating yet dangerous sport known for its frequent injuries, including abdominal injuries, broken ribs, and concussions. While all positions on the football field carry injury risks, substantial research has been conducted, particularly on concussions, shedding light on specific positions most susceptible to them.

Among the positions, cornerbacks, wide receivers, and linebackers stand out as the top three with the highest concussion rates. These concussions often stem from impactful plays, helmet-to-body collisions, and helmet-to-helmet hits.

Cornerbacks are leading the pack in concussion vulnerability, as proven by an NFL study analyzing 459 concussions during games in 2015 and 2016. These players often find themselves in open-field situations, making them more exposed, especially defensive backs who tackle at high speeds. Their role involves covering receivers, blitzing, and defending against offensive running plays, which makes them prone to collisions and hits.

Related: What NFL positions are most injury prone?

Wide receivers, the second most at-risk position, frequently endure significant hits when catching passes in the midst of defenders. Their attempts to outmaneuver larger and more powerful opponents result in impactful collisions, even though penalties are intended to offer protection.

Linebackers, the third position with high concussion rates, experience frequent impacts due to their aggressive charging toward ball carriers. Their forceful and rapid playstyle leads to intense collisions, particularly to the front of their helmets.

Ongoing research has highlighted the long-term effects of concussions on NFL players, prompting greater awareness and caution both on and off the field. Sidelining a player for nineteen days due to a concussion, compared to the shorter sidelining period a decade ago, emphasizes the seriousness of these injuries.

Once underrated, concussions now receive heightened recognition as their potential consequences come into focus.

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