In last year or two the padded shells worn outside of football helmets during practice became ubiquitous at all levels of football.

I think there's some confusion as to why teams use them. Some think it's to protect the helmets from wear and tear of daily practices. Others think it's for player safety. I'm just a fan so no way for me to know what the main purpose is for the new equipment, but if you google the product it mentions that it "reduces impact" to the head.

If it's true that it reduces impact, why not wear them in games? Aside from the fact that they look silly and throw off everyone's head-to-body proportions.

CTE is a huge problem for these athletes and the sport itself. If there's a way to possibly prevent it, shouldn't the sport be running at it?