Report: Newer version of Antonio Brown’s preferred helmet failed testing

Antonio Brown’s frustration with the NFL’s helmet regulations came to the forefront again Sunday when he skipped practice over the issue. Now we may know the reason for that.

According to Matt Kawahara of the San Francisco Chronicle, there was hope in Brown’s camp that if a newer version of his preferred Schutt Air Advantage helmet could be located, it could be recertified and he would be allowed to play with it. However, Brown was informed last Monday that a different version would still have to undergo lab testing.

A 2011 model of the Air Advantage helmet was located and sent for testing, but it failed the test, meaning all versions of the Air Advantage are banned from play. Brown was informed of that on Saturday.

(1/2) Per league source, NFL and NFLPA told Brown's camp Monday the Schutt Air Advantage (Brown's preferred model of helmet) would have to undergo lab testing before being allowed on the field. A 2011 version was acquired, tested and did not pass. #Raiders

— Matt Kawahara (@matthewkawahara) August 18, 2019

(2/2) Previous thought was if Brown found an Air Advantage less than 10 years old, it could be recertified under NOCSAE/NAERA standards. But failed test bans all versions of Air Advantage, which is no longer manufactured. Brown's camp was told yesterday, per source. #Raiders

— Matt Kawahara (@matthewkawahara) August 18, 2019

This may be the root cause of Brown abruptly skipping practice again on Sunday, an event which prompted his GM to essentially lay down an ultimatum. The bottom line is Brown’s preferred helmet is not going to be allowed, and it’s not up to him what he does about it. The Raiders — and the league — are eagerly awaiting his final verdict.