Although helmets did not become standard gear until after World War II, some pioneering players wore primitive head covering as far back as the early 1900s. The earliest versions, called "head harnesses," were made of soft leather and were predominantly designed to cover the ears. Because the flaps on the original head harnesses covered the ear completely, however, they were criticized for hindering communication on the playing field. The first helmets offering full protection of the skull and featuring holes in the earflaps were introduced between 1915 and 1917. Although the flat-top caps were still made of soft leather, they offered some suspension, rather than resting directly on the skull.
http://www.popularmechanics.com/outdoors/sports/football/4281378
I can see why gladiators feel invincible when wearing the helmet because of the texture of the material and the cushion inside. But our modern gladiators should not be risking their lives to entertain the crowd and moreover themselves. Numerous football players careers have been shortened because of the injuries sustained. These atheletes are often times in the best physical condition that a man can possibly be in, but the game is played at such a high speed that the head is vulnerable to hard hits. Millions and millions of dollars have been spent on the development of a helmet that will decrease the risk of concussions.
Just take a moment to review what I am talking about from one of the professionals who knows in this short video:
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=NpnsEp75DSQ
The NFL is not igmoring the facts that these helmets are dangerous but they are also being responsive to the severity of life after the NFL. Which I feel is most important.
