What the Latest Concussion Research Says About Tackling in Football

When my son first stepped onto the football field, my pride as a former pro athlete mixed with very personal fears. Like so many parents today, I needed answers: How dangerous are football collisions really? What does science say? After digging into the newest research, here’s what every coach and parent should know.

After diving into the newest studies and expert insights, here’s what every coach, player, and parent should know about safe tackling in football and how to reduce concussion risks.

1. The Latest Concussion Research: Key Findings

Recent studies from the Journal of Neurosurgery and the Concussion Legacy Foundation highlight critical insights:

Proper tackling technique reduces head impact by up to 30%—emphasizing shoulder-led, heads-up contact.
Repetitive sub-concussive hits (small, frequent impacts) may contribute to long-term brain issues, even without diagnosed concussions.
Age matters: Younger athletes (under 14) have higher concussion risks due to developing brains and neck strength differences.

This research reinforces why teaching safe tackling from day one is non-negotiable.

2. How to Teach Safer Tackling (According to Science)

The NFL’s Heads Up Football program and NCAA training guidelines now focus on:

Eyes Up, Shoulder First: Avoiding helmet-first contact reduces whiplash and brain jarring.
Wrap-and-Roll Technique: Tackling with controlled momentum lowers high-force collisions.
Neck Strengthening Exercises: Stronger neck muscles help stabilize the head during impact.

At TackleSmart Sports, we integrate these methods into our training—because smarter tackling means safer play.

3. What Parents & Coaches Can Do Right Now

Ask about tackling drills: Ensure your league prioritizes proper form over aggression.
Monitor for symptoms: Headaches, dizziness, or confusion post-hit? Seek medical evaluation immediately.
Advocate for limits on full-contact practice: research shows reduced contact in practice lowers concussion rates.

Final Thought: Football Doesn’t Have to Be "Unsafe"

The game is evolving. With better coaching, updated techniques, and awareness, we can protect young athletes while keeping football’s spirit alive.

At TackleSmart Sports, we’re committed to evidence-based training—because every player deserves to compete safely.

Are you a parent or coach who wants to make sure your young athlete is learning the safest, most effective tackling techniques from proven professionals? Then, SIGN UP for our newsletter to stay up to date with our regular content, including upcoming events or camps!