Gotcha, I wasn't aware the game was so significantly different. I think the WSJ article suggests that removing the helmets would force the game to change in th

Gotcha, I wasn't aware the game was so significantly different. I think the WSJ article suggests that removing the helmets would force the game to change in this manner. Also very much agreed regarding the linemen situation. It does conflict a little with your edit, however -- while the worst hits come from the forward pass (frequently), I think the most brain damage (at least from reading the Malcolm Gladwell article on the topic) comes from subconcussive impacts. Basically every time a player runs into each other, 50-80 times per practice or game. I think the NFL is at the cusp of realizing how much damage the players' brains suffer. They (and even the NFLPA) aren't very good about taking care of players after their careers are over. I see two possible solutions: improve the equipment, or significantly change the game.