The NFL is working through different options to keep players and staff members safe during the upcoming 2020 season, one of which is a face shield for players to wear on their helmets. It’s similar to a visor, but is meant to prevent the spread of germs during games.
Oakley is developing what they call the “Mouth Shield” and gave prototypes to the Rams and Chargers first to test. J.J. Watt has already said he won’t wear one, and it sounds like Aaron Donald will be passing on that option, too.
He said he on a conference call Wednesday that he doesn’t want to wear one, mentioning the need for air and ventilation as reasons for his stance.
Rams DT Aaron Donald isn't interested in the improved face shields that some players are putting on helmets: "I probably won't even try that on. I need air when I'm out there running around."
— Greg Beacham (@gregbeacham) August 5, 2020
The NFL isn’t requiring players to wear the mouth shield, but it is giving them the option to wear them this season. Given the close-quarters nature of football, it could help limit the spread of the coronavirus and germs, but players seem unwilling to give it a chance.
Donald and his fellow players know they have to make good decisions during the pandemic because if there is an outbreak during the season, games could be canceled.
Aaron Donald on empahsizing safety off the field cause on the field, “We’re slobbering, spitting and bleeding on each other.” Says they know they have to make good decisions or football may get taken away from them.
— Omar Ruiz (@OmarDRuiz) August 5, 2020