How to Put on NFL Pads

Players in the National Football League are required to wear protective padding during games and practices. These pads help absorb the impact of continuous contact during the game. At the start of each practice and game, players must put on all the padding correctly to ensure that their body has the highest level of protection.

Things You'll Need

  • Helmet
  • Shoulder pads
  • Athletic supporter
  • Thigh pads
  • Knee pads
  • Elbow pads
  • Hip pads
  • Rib pads
  • Tailbone pads
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Instructions

    • 1

      Insert your thigh and knee pads into your uniform pants. The pants have pockets on the inside of each leg that hold one of each pad. Slide them into place and check to make sure they are in the right position by feeling on the front of the pants.

    • 2

      Put on your athletic supporter with cup. The cup should fit comfortably over your groin and should not move when you walk.

    • 3

      Strap on the hip and tailbone pads over the athletic supporter. The hip and tailbone pads should cover both areas and the supporter completely.

    • 4

      Put on your socks and uniform pants. Tuck the socks into the pants. Check the positioning of the thigh and knee pads to make sure that each of those body parts is covered by the corresponding pad.

    • 5

      Strap your rib pads onto your midsection. The pads should cover the front and sides of your core and strap in the back. Place the rib pads over an undershirt or directly against the skin.

    • 6

      Strap your shoulder pads onto your shoulders. The pad straps connect around your biceps and under your armpits. Ensure the pads cover your shoulders and chest muscles. Have a teammate adjust your pads to make sure they are in the right position and do not move with contact.

    • 7

      Pull your jersey on over the shoulder pads. The jersey should stretch to completely cover your upper body padding. Ask a teammate to assist in pulling it all the way down if necessary.

    • 8

      Strap on your helmet. The chin strap will rest against your chin and attach to the other side of the helmet. Insert your mouth guard into your mouth to complete putting on the football padding.