Why do football players lick their hands? Weird QB practice explained

During games, quarterbacks in football occasionally lick their fingers. They do it to make it easier for them to hold the football. Even if it doesn't really matter, a little moisturization can help you hold the ball more easily.

In a bid to make football gloves tacky, spit is sometimes employed. You'll note that tight ends, running backs, and wide receivers frequently put saliva on their gloves to keep them stickier. A similar method is used by quarterbacks to increase their grasp on the ball while wearing rubber gloves.

It appears that spit enhances friction between the two areas, which implies that you can improve grip by adding spit to a layer. Additionally, you need as much grip as possible when sprinting on wet ground. Not only for your own protection but also to keep the ball under your command.

Therefore, it's not abnormal if your team members moisten their fingers before playing in a damp setting, or even if they just do it impulsively; it could enhance their grasp and ability to control the ball.

This might become a quarterback's practice once they get into the mindset of doing it before the game.

How else can NFL players keep their hands warm?

Modern players have an edge in maintaining their inner temperatures thanks to the enhanced jersey innovation of cold-weather clothing, but there are still times when they need to rely on some tried-and-true methods to stay comfortable on the pitch.

For professional footballers, starting up on the pitch in below-freezing temperatures is no simple task, and nobody likes to play a game with frozen hands. NFL players use latex gloves most of the time to keep their hands warm, but there are other ways they can stay warm.

Warm drinks, including hot beverages, are usually acceptable for hydration when a game is in a cold environment, but they have little effect on keeping warm or raising one's body's core temperature. Protein, electrolytes, and salt are all components of chicken broth and soup that can help keep football players warm.

When it's breezy outside, petroleum jelly works best since it serves as an insulator for the skin, preventing it from absorbing moisture and warmth. It might also make it easier for attacking players to evade defensive tackles.