DENVER — The Denver Broncos have taken a significant step towards enhancing safety in high school football across Colorado. In a groundbreaking partnership with Riddell, a well-known football equipment company, and the Colorado High School Activities Association, the Broncos are set to provide more than 15,000 brand-new Riddell Axiom helmets to every high school tackle football program in the state.
This initiative, titled “ALL IN. ALL COVERED.”, represents the largest charitable investment in the franchise’s history, with plans to distribute the helmets between 2025 and 2028. Each of the current 277 high school tackle football teams will receive 25% of the helmets annually, ensuring that teams of all sizes, from 5A to 6-man programs, will benefit.
“The Denver Broncos Foundation is proud to launch ALL IN. ALL COVERED., a program that aims to make a lasting impact on Colorado youth,” said Broncos Owner and Foundation Board Chair Carrie Walton Penner. The idea to create this initiative originated during a Broncos board meeting in August 2024, aimed at lowering barriers and improving player safety.
Riddell’s Axiom helmets have been selected for their top-notch safety features. Each helmet will be custom-fitted using a 3D imaging system to ensure maximum comfort and safety for each player. Additionally, these helmets come equipped with InSite Smart Helmet Technology, which tracks impacts to help coaches adjust techniques and enhance safety.
Broncos VP of Community Impact, Allie Engelken, emphasized the program’s role in removing financial barriers for schools and athletes. “We know that the helmet is the single most expensive piece of individual equipment required to play tackle football,” Engelken stated.
Partnering with the program are Children’s Health Colorado and CommonSpirit Health, which aim to mitigate head injury risks. Broncos President Damani Leech views this initiative as a chance to promote equitable access to the sport. Helmets are expected to reach schools by May, just in time for the fall football season.
CHSAA Commissioner Mike Krueger mentioned the long-term positive effect this initiative will have on high school football programs across Colorado. “This initiative will have a lasting positive impact on high school football programs and athletes across Colorado for years to come,” he said.
Riddell’s team is set to begin the “ALL IN. ALL COVERED. Blitz” in February, which will include custom fittings for each athlete and educational opportunities for coaches and parents. This initiative not only enhances safety but also promotes a more supportive environment for young athletes, ensuring their health and well-being on the field.
