Denver Broncos to donate 15,000 high-tech helmets to Colorado schools

The Denver Broncos have made a historic philanthropic donation aimed at enhancing the safety of student-athletes across Colorado. In a partnership with Riddell and the Colorado High School Activities Association, the Denver Broncos Foundation is supplying new, custom-fitted, high-tech helmets to all 277 high schools in the state. This initiative, referred to as "All in. All covered," is set to significantly improve player safety and comfort on the football field.

Each helmet will be tailored to fit the individual athlete's head using scans, and equipped with advanced technology to monitor impacts during gameplay. High school football players are particularly excited about the custom fittings, as many are unsure of their proper helmet size. The initiative not only provides better fitting equipment but also ensures enhanced safety with helmets that are designed to minimize the risks of injury.

Over the next four years, the Broncos will distribute more than 15,000 Riddell Axiom Smart Helmets, each fitted with five-sensor point technology. This includes a sideline device and a four-year subscription to Insight Analytics, enabling coaches to monitor the force of impacts and identify when a player may need medical evaluation. Coaches like Jaren Cohen from Ponderosa High School express the significant impact this donation will have on school athletic programs that often face funding challenges.

The ability to track helmet impacts is a major advancement in player safety, with coaches and players alike recognizing the benefits of such technology. As one player noted, the concern for long-term health, particularly issues like CTE, is a driving factor in valuing these new safety measures. The initiative is seen as a game-changer for Colorado athletes, offering peace of mind regarding their health during the sport.

The Broncos' donation is not simply about providing helmets; it embodies a commitment to athlete wellness and the future of high school football in Colorado. Helmets are expected to be delivered by August, with fitting sessions starting in February, marking a significant step towards safer practices in youth sports.