Players wear padded helmets in practice, I presume to prevent concussions. Why don’t they wear padded helmets during games?
Per rules probably not permissible. This is the first year that the NFL has allowed in game helmet padding. The only player I have seen wearing it is a Pittsburgh offensive lineman. edit: now 6 Who wears a guardian cap in NFL? 6 players who have worn new, protective helmet in 2024 | Sporting News