Aaron Rodgers Critiques New NFL Helmet, Calls It a ‘Damn Spaceship’

Aaron Rodgers Critiques New NFL Helmet, Calls It a ‘Damn Spaceship’

Aaron Rodgers, the veteran quarterback and four-time MVP, is facing another challenge on the field. The NFL star continues to struggle with finding a helmet that meets his standards as well as league safety regulations.

Rodgers had a fondness for his Schutt Air XP Pro Q11 LTD helmet. Unfortunately, this model no longer complies with NFL safety guidelines, forcing the player to select a new option. He opted for another Schutt model, the Air XP Pro VTD II, but his feelings about it have been less than favorable as he practices with it during training sessions with the Pittsburgh Steelers.

In a recent statement, Rodgers expressed his dissatisfaction. He stated, “I don’t like it, no,” referring to the new helmet during a media session on Tuesday. He noted that the adjustment process is ongoing, but at the moment, the helmet’s aesthetic does not impress him. “It looks like a damn spaceship out there,” he remarked.

While Rodgers did not elaborate on the specific adjustments he is making to feel more comfortable with his new headgear, he is aware that he must make the transition before the regular season kicks off in September. He has a sense of urgency to adapt as he prepares for Week 1 games.

The quarterback shared that parts of the helmet do not fit well together. He indicated, “We got to change it. The face mask doesn’t fit the helmet because that’s an old face mask, obviously just like I’m old, but we’re trying to find the right helmet right now.” This candid acknowledgment reflects the trials he faces as an aging player in a demanding sport.

Rodgers had previously voiced concerns regarding helmet comfort back in June, shortly after he signed a contract with the Steelers, following an extensive free agency period this offseason. As sentiments about the equipment challenge continue, fans and sports analysts alike are eager to see how these changes might affect his performance on the field.

Preseason Challenges and Upcoming Games

In the Steelers’ first preseason game against the Jacksonville Jaguars this past Saturday, Rodgers had limited opportunities to assess his new helmet’s functionality. Like many starting players across the NFL, he sat out that match, preserving his energy for the upcoming challenges.

Looking ahead, the Steelers are gearing up for joint practices against the Tampa Bay Buccaneers this week. Rodgers is preparing for a tactical assessment against an opponent that promises to test their offensive line. He expressed hope that Buccaneers head coach Todd Bowles would provide meaningful defensive challenges during practice, saying, “Hopefully, he probably won’t show everything, but he’ll do some stuff to stress our protection and give us a chance to get some film to work on.”

Reflections on a Career

As he prepares for his 21st season in the NFL, Rodgers has openly contemplated his future. During an interview on