or nearly a decade, we were stuck in a dimension where NFL throwback helmets barely existed.

A 2013 league rule limiting teams to a single primary helmet meant designs like Pat Patriot or the Steelers’ yellow lids had to be mothballed. That changed in 2022, allowing nature to heal in the form of old school appearances and new, bold ventures into unique colors and designs. The majority of the NFL’s 32 teams have added an alternate helmet in the years since, with teams like the Baltimore Ravens, Minnesota Vikings and New York Giants jumping into the mix this fall.

And, because it’s July and we’re still a month away from even exhibition football, it’s time to wade into a subjective argument about which ones are best.

For this ranking, I’m only using recent alternate helmet designs — so while the throwbacks of the 1990s have merit, I’m only going to try and run with things we’re liable to see on the field this fall or beyond. And here’s where I’ll mention the obscene helpfulness of the Gridiron Uniform Database, which is invaluable for sparking stupid debates like the 32 I’m set to wade into.

Let’s talk best extra helmets, from bold shots that debuted to universal acclaim and others that just sorta exist. And remember, this is all subjective and my forte is quarterback value, not fashion, so it’s entirely possible I am very, very wrong.

Seattle Seahawks: Steve Largent silver

On their own? These are pretty nice. Pair them with the blue alternate jerseys, however, and you’re looking at magic.

Jan 9, 2022; Glendale, Arizona, USA; Detailed view of a Seattle Seahawks helmet at State Farm Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Mark J. Rebilas-USA TODAY Sports

Tampa Bay Buccaneers: Bucco Bruce

Hideous and beautiful. Bucco Bruce is the duality of humankind.

Aug 11, 2017; Cincinnati, OH, USA; A view of the Tampa Bay Buccaneers logo on a helmet on the sidelines at Paul Brown Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Aaron Doster-USA TODAY Sports ORG XMIT: USATSI-359153 ORIG FILE ID: 20170811_kek_db4_234.JPG

Philadelphia Eagles: Kelly green

Beautiful color, perfect throwback. This should be the primary, not the alternate.

Atlanta Falcons: Throwback red

 

September 20, 2009; Atlanta, GA, USA; An Atlanta Falcons throwback helmet sits on the field before the game against the Carolina Panthers at the Georgia Dome. Mandatory Credit: Dale Zanine-USA TODAY Sports

On it’s own? This is a great helmet. But put it on top of a black jersey with red highlights? Now it’s an icon.

New England Patriots: Pat Patriot

 

Patriots QB #4 Bailey Zappe gets a tap on the helmet from head coach Bill Belichick after he ran the ball in the 4th to set up a Patriot field goal.
17 Patslions 100922 Bb

A beautiful, goofy logo for a team that largely couldn’t get out of its own way while wearing it. These aren’t a throwback to an era of success; New England only started winning Super Bowls after the flying Elvis arrived. But given the way 2023 turned out, that’s fitting.