The technology in designing the NFL helmets keep up with each generation of bigger, faster, and harder hitting players and prevent concussions. Personally I believe the NFL is doing everything they can to protect their players from concussions. A concussion is a traumatic brain injury that alters the way your brain functions. Effects are usually temporary, but can include problems with headaches, concentration, memory, judgment, balance and coordination.
Doctors have been doing neuropsychological testing for over 30 years in the assessment of cognitive functions after concussive injuries. Neuropsychological test are designed to measure cognitive skills and abilities such as intelligence, problem solving, memory, concentration, impulse control, and reaction time, to name a few. At the sports concussion institute both computerized and standard paper and pencil tests are used before using baseline test and after post injury test after a concussive injury occurs.
American football can be traced back to the mid-19th century. The very first college game was in 1869 and the first professional game was played in 1892; however they did not use helmets. In fact, the leather helmet wasn't invented until the 1900's. Since that time helmets have evolved and become more protective. In 1939, Riddell a company in Illinois manufactured plastic helmets because they thought it would be safer for the players.
Football helmets became mandatory by the 1940's in the NFL and plastic facemasks were being put on them as well. The helmets we see players wearing today did not come onto the market until the 1990s. Today, helmets are made up of polycarbonate and are much stronger than any previously made helmet. Riddell has recently developed a helmet called revolution, which is supposed to be more concussion