How NFL Can Curb Players' Concussion Hysteria

Creating a safer work environment for players has been a top priority during Roger Goodell's tenure as NFL commissioner, and now he has the unenviable task of simmering the current concussion hysteria that's run rampant across the league. 

Sure, the majority of players won't second-guess themselves when stepping on the field this season, but there's certainly a higher number of guys than ever before who are more concerned and cognizant of the lasting affects concussions can have on them.

It won't lead to a drastic decrease in aggressiveness on the field, but it's a burden the league must take care of for many reasons.

First, it must settle the current lawsuits out of court. That's the best move from a public relations standpoint, and one that has to be made. 

After that, an altered retirement plan must be prepared that specifically aids players' injuries once they take off their helmets for the final time. Sadly, many guys are financially irresponsible during their careers, but the NFL can't regulate how they spend or invest their money when they're in the league. There simply must be an overt increase in the level of health care upon retirement. 

In the new collective bargaining agreement, the NFL and NFLPA did agree upon an improvement in benefits for retirees (h/t NationalFootballPost.com):

"

· Over the next 10 years, additional funding for retiree benefits of between $900 million and $1 billion. The largest single amount, $620 million, will be used for a new "Legacy Fund," which will be devoted to increasing pensions for pre-1993 retirees.

· Other improvements will be made to post-career medical options, the disability plan, the 88 Plan, career transition and degree completion programs, and the Player Care Plan.

· Creation of new fund to redistribute, beginning in 2012, savings from new rookie pay system to current and retired player benefits and a veteran player performance pool.

"

There's not much detail there, but it's a step in the right direction and must continue to be more player-friendly as the years progress. 

Secondly, and this won't be welcomed by the fans, even more on-field safety must be initiated. Yes, that means more personal foul flags for flagrant helmet-to-helmet spears, especially on defenseless players—offensive and defensive. 

Sadly, this wouldn't stop the small but repeated collisions that occur between offensive and defensive linemen on every play that eventually are just as damaging, but it'd definitely make players feel safer when they step between the lines. 

Lastly, the technology of helmets has to be more technologically advanced. There hasn't been an alteration in NFL headgear in quite some time, and it's hard to say players are wearing the most cutting-edge technology. 

Uniforms, spikes, padding and gloves have all experienced transformations over the last decade, but helmets have stayed relatively the same.

A new, more protective helmet is essential.

It would go a long way in players' confidence that they'll be safer, and it should limit the actual occurrence of concussions. 

A win for everyone involved. 

Follow @ChrisTrapasso