What Kinds of Accessories Should a Quarterback Wear During a Football Game?

In football, quarterbacks throw passes, hand off to running backs and run or "scramble" quickly on certain plays. Throughout the course of a typical football game, quarterbacks are hit several times. In order to mitigate the risk of injury, quarterbacks must use protective gear while playing.

  1. Helmets

    • Quarterbacks, along with other football players, wear helmets to protect themselves from head injuries such as concussions. According to WebMD, football players suffer more than 100,000 concussions per year.

      It is imperative that quarterbacks protect themselves from injury by wearing a snug-fitting, high-padding, advanced-technology helmet.

    Shoulder Pads

    • Quarterbacks wear specialized lightweight shoulder pads that provide injury protection while still allowing a free range of throwing motion. Also, quarterback shoulder pads should be low to allow the player to have a full range of vision.

    Hip Pads

    • Hip pads are key to protecting a quarterback from damaging upper leg injuries. Hip pads should be lightweight to allow for a free range of motion when running or moving around in the pocket.

    Thigh Pads

    • Thigh pads are situated at the front of the football pants and protect against leg injuries. Quarterbacks should wear lightweight foam thigh pads.

    Knee Pads

    • Knee pads cover the knee and are excellent for protecting against damaging knee injuries that quarterbacks might face. The knee pads should also be lightweight and flexible.

    Cleats

    • Quarterbacks, like all football players, should wear cleats to aid in gripping the grass when moving around the field. Cleats can have either plastic grips or metal spikes, depending on personal preference.

    Flak Jackets

    • Quarterbacks are exposed to hits near the chest and upper back because of the nature of their position. Because of this, many quarterbacks wear lightweight flak jackets to reduce the risk of injury to the ribcage and back.