Record-Breaking Heat Poses Challenges for NFL Training Camps
Training camps for NFL teams have faced an additional hurdle this year in the form of unrelenting heatwaves across the nation. The scorching temperatures, breaking previous records, have made it even more challenging than usual for teams to prepare for the upcoming season. The New Orleans Saints have experienced the impact of hot and humid weather, with players like Keith Kirkwood and Shaq Davis suffering from heat-related symptoms during practice. This issue is not exclusive to the Saints, as teams across the league are grappling with the need to balance player safety with intense training requirements.
In July alone, this year is predicted to be the hottest on record, with the Southwest and parts of the South particularly affected. The Midwest and East have also experienced extreme heat. In light of these conditions, NFL teams must be extra vigilant in ensuring the well-being of their players while maximizing training efficiency before the season kicks off in September.
Player safety has been a top priority since the tragic death of Minnesota Vikings offensive tackle Korey Stringer on August 1, 2001. Stringer succumbed to exertional heat stroke, and his passing highlighted the need for improved medical training and measures to prevent such incidents. In response, teams have implemented various precautions this year, including more frequent water breaks and adjusting practice times.
New Orleans Saints quarterback Derek Carr emphasized the importance of understanding the science behind heat-related risks. Carr noted the notable changes in training practices and their focus on minimizing time spent in high temperatures throughout his career in the league. Having previously played for the Las Vegas Raiders, Carr highlighted the scorching desert conditions players had to endure. He described the experience as feeling like your skin is going to fall off due to the extreme heat.
To combat the intense heat in their new home of Las Vegas, the Raiders have shifted their practice times to the early morning, avoiding the hottest parts of the day. However, temperatures can still reach triple digits by the time the players finish their sessions. Despite having an indoor facility, the team prefers to practice outdoors due to the larger space and grass fields. To aid in player comfort, cool boxes are strategically located near the practice fields.
Some warm-weather teams have found alternative methods to combat the heat. The Arizona Cardinals utilize their retractable-roof stadium, while the Dallas Cowboys hold their training camp in Southern California, which offers more moderate temperatures.
However, teams located in hotter regions must adapt to their local weather conditions. The Houston Texans prioritize player health and safety, focusing on measures that help combat the heat’s negative effects. General Manager Nick Caserio shared that some players even wear hoodies and sweatpants during practice to promote sweating, aiding in the body’s cooling process.
Washington Commanders head coach Ron Rivera has taken steps to protect players from excessive heat. After experiencing a string of record temperatures during last year’s camp, resulting in several soft-tissue injuries, Rivera implemented a practice schedule starting at 9 a.m. Additionally, increased water breaks and a cooling tent are available to players if they begin to feel the effects of the heat.
Different coaches employ varying strategies, recognizing the need to prepare players for high-temperature games early in the season. Cincinnati Bengals coach Zac Taylor cited an example of their home game against the Pittsburgh Steelers last year, which had over 100 snaps and extended into overtime. Taylor emphasized the importance of ensuring players are ready for such demanding conditions.
One player who takes the extreme heat seriously is Raiders defensive end Maxx Crosby. Crosby believes in prepping the body for the heat by training both indoors and outdoors during the offseason. He highlighted the necessity of exposing oneself to the heat rather than solely training in air-conditioned environments.
While players are eager to prove themselves and secure positions during training camp, their health and safety should remain paramount. Miami Dolphins offensive tackle Kendall Lamm acknowledged that despite the challenging weather conditions, the job still needs to get done.
As teams navigate training camps in sweltering heat, they continue to prioritize player well-being. Adapting practice schedules, increasing water breaks, and providing cooling options are among the strategies employed to mitigate the impact of record-breaking temperatures. Ultimately, striking a balance between player safety and preparation for the season remains a top priority for NFL teams across the league.
