NFL Draws Controversy After Outlawing Hoodies
New Uniform Policy for the 2016 NFL Season Receives Flak
The NFL has further cemented its reputation as the "No Fun League" as it has passed a rule that players can no longer wear hoodies that extend past a player's jersey.
While this rule may sound ridiculous at first thought, it was put into place without the NFL owners having to vote on it as it concerns a uniform policy adjustment.
Only One Player Wore a Hoodie Last Year
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Surprisingly enough, the rule only effects one player who wore a hoodie underneath his pads last year. The player in question is James Jones, formerly of the Green Bay Packers. Jones wore the garment in several regular season games and in the playoffs.
Jones slightly improved while wearing a hoodie than without it. Ironically, he was unaware of the stats and quoted that the garment made him feel warmer.
The Reason Behind the Rule Change
NFL officials are stating that the real reason behind the change is not because it helps players in their performance, but because hoodies actually block the nameplate on player's uniform. This blockage makes it harder for officials to call any necessary penalties on players who wear the garment.
Still, there are some fans who question the banning of hoodies from the game while some players are allowed to keep their hair long, which could also block nameplates.
NFL's Strict Uniform Policy
Fans have found the ruling unnecessary, with many mocking it, saying that it's just another addition to the NFL's strict uniform policy.
For those not in the know, the NFL keeps a very strict uniform upkeep policy. They even went as far as fining players and teams that do not adhere to the league's policy. The policy includes how each player must wear their uniform during the game, even if the player is not currently in the field.
The policy includes rules such as banning bandanas or unauthorized headgears under helmets, prohibiting headgears (caps or hats) that are not from the NFL's authorized supplier New Era as well as requiring teams to obtain approval to use a new product before any game.
The official NFL website states that according to league policy, "A player's appearance on the field conveys a message regarding the image of the League and directly affects the League's reputation and success."
