Fans divided as NFL makes controversial unexpected rule change that will affect game for decades to come

The NFL has announced a stunning rule change during the league's annual draft.

For years, the league has attempted to increase player safety while still allowing for prime action on the field in an inherently aggressive -- and often dangerous -- sport.

Rules governing kickoffs and onside kicks have drastically changed in past years, while the NFL has gradually improved its handling of head injuries and concussions.

But an unexpected change announced during the draft is by far the biggest rule alteration to date.

The NFL will allow the use of "Guardian Caps" during the upcoming 2024 season.

The heavily padded caps cover NFL helmets -- and have been a running joke on social media since they were revealed.

The protective headgear was required for players at some positions during training camp for the 2022 and '23 seasons.

The caps -- which guard the head during hard helmet-to-helmet collisions -- were also required to be worn during practice by players who were not QBs or kickers.

But the Guardian Caps were not allowed in real NFL games, until now.

While some fans cheered the league for allowing players to further protect themselves, others believe it's a step too far and will create a laughable look for the NFL.

"Up next: flag football," one fan tweeted.

"Can they be less ugly, though?" a second fan posted.

"Will ruin the game," a third fan wrote.

"How are people upset about players trying to protect their brain?" a fourth fan asked. "If this can help, it’s a good idea."

There's no arguing that the Guardian Caps look nothing like normal NFL helmets or the overall uniforms that have helped turn the sport into the biggest in America.

They also can appear to be an April Fool's joke delivered at the wrong time.

Seeing a Guardian Cap placed on Patrick Mahomes or Travis Kelce will shock football fans who aren't previously aware of the protective padding and why it is used.

While fans love the on-field action and drama of the NFL, they also love the overall look and cool "vibe" of the game.

There's never been a look like the Guardian Caps before in a real NFL game.

It's up to players whether they will use them.

If they do, social media will be heavily divided once again.

NFL executive vice president Jeff Miller said Guardian Caps have contributed to an almost 50 percent reduction in concussions for the position groups.

"We now have two years of data showing significant concussion reductions among players who wear Guardian Caps during practice, so players will be permitted to wear the cap during games this upcoming season," Miller told .

"Additionally, there are new helmets this year that provide as much -- if not more -- protection than a different helmet model paired with a Guardian Cap. These developments represent substantial progress in our efforts to make the game safer for players."