OK, a little change of pace here. I can't remember any players over the course of the last few years, on the OL, who wore knee braces on a daily basis. Now, the pics from minicap distributed thus far, coupled with the college footage, shows not only Mangold but also Brick wearing braces on BOTH knees. I could understand that they might wear them in practice so as to reduce the wear and tear. However, I can't help but wonder if there is any chronic knee condition which afflicts either player which we weren't privy to in scouting reports. Has anyone on the board wore such a brace before? It's not the typical "Ace" neoprene brace, but rather a large, hinged contraption that makes the wearer appear 1/2 human, 1/2 robot. Anyone? Anyone? Bueller?
I haven't heard anything about outstanding knee problems but I know Parcells initiated the all linemen wear knee braces during practice rule....
I'm sure it's just to prevent injury. If there was a real problem with either player's knees I'm sure the scouting department would have picked up on it before minicamp.
ive played OL/DL the braces are becoming more widely used even in the lower levels of play. its really helps when your supporting over 300 lb of man. not to mention the various bodies and equipment ready to crash in on your knee at the line. i wouldnt read into it too much, theyre prolly just limiting risk.
The braces are used to prevent acl, mcl, and meniscus tears. You can dampen the the resistence on them to prevent over extending the knee. They are beneficial to just about any athlete that wears them becuase they are lightwieght and don't hinder movement at all. The reason not every player wears them is becuase of the high cost. Most of them are made out of super light weight alluminum or carbon fiber which gets pricey. The ones Mangold and Brick are wearing would probably cost anywhere from $800 +.
Stupidier? No comment champ...That right there, is hillarious. Calling Woody "stupidier" when it isn't even a word. Classic!!:rofl2:
Ive always wondered why more players (esp O line) dont where them in the NFL. With so many knee injuries it is a smart preventative move. Not to mention a good thing for longevity and quality of life for these guys 10 years down the line when they want to be able to bend over and pick up their kids when they retire. Im betting we see a lot more players whering them in the near future, and that they become more advanced, lightweight etc...hurry invest in knee brace research!!!
ACL and MCL tears aren't career injuries. They do affect a player for up to two and a half years, they usually don't end careers unless they're ruptured multiple times though. And I believe D'Brickashaw has worn them in college. They're big fellas, and they have to get leverage on even bigger fellas.
No, I just think that's why entire teams aren't outfitted with them. Individually it could be as simple as a comfort issue.
