NFL to collaborate with XFL on player safety and health data
Feb 21, 2022, 11:30 AM
A view of the XFL logo on the sidelines before the XFL game between the DC Defenders and the St. Louis Battlehawks at Audi Field on March 8, 2020 in Washington, DC. (Photo by Scott Taetsch/Getty Images)
(Photo by Scott Taetsch/Getty Images)
NEW YORK (AP) — The NFL is collaborating with the XFL for player safety and health data.
The XFL, which plans to relaunch in 2023, will be working with the NFL on physical and mental fitness programs for players, the study of playing surfaces and equipment, and the sharing of game trends and data.
“We are extremely pleased to collaborate with the NFL in these important areas,” said Dany Garcia, co-owner of the XFL, which also has Dwayne “The Rock” Johnson among its ownership group. “We are bringing forward an XFL that is progressive and forward thinking when it comes to innovation, leveraging the newest technology to enhance game-day experience. We have an open field for innovative rules to enhance in-game access.
“Sharing insights and practices between the XFL and NFL will do a tremendous amount of good for the game of football and support the player ecosystem overall.”
Also potentially in the works between the leagues could be international football development and scouting, and officiating, including the testing of game rules for player protection as well as technologies to enhance officiating.
“The XFL has shown us that innovation is one of its core principles. We are hopeful that this relationship will support further development and improvements in the game of football at all levels.” said Troy Vincent, who oversees NFL football operations.
The XFL is not planning to become a developmental league for the NFL.
