Rugby is played with no helmet no pads. But why are there less injuries than in American football?

Certain things are not allowed in Rugby which are common in American football.

Simple reason. Gridiron players deliberately go out and intentionally use there helmet as a WEAPON

Maybe football players are more reckless because of the protection they wear?
I dont understand american football. I love rugby.

I think it’s because the pads and helmets makes the illusion that it’s safer to hit people harder. Also, in football, different positions are more prone to injuries than others and the game isn’t as open field and spread out as rugby is. For example linemen are on average atleast 6’4 350 pounds and constantly are hitting eachother in a stalemate the entire game. Similary, most running backs are significantly smaller but have to run through those linemen.

Helmets and pads result in harder hits.

It's that way in every sport - better protection gear raises the bar in terms of speed, impacts, etc. And when things go wrong, results can be more catastrophic.

Plus, helmets aren't nearly as good at preventing accumulated concussion damage as people like to think - and without helmets people take far more effort not to crack their heads together.

We have rules that keep ppl off and away from head n necks.. and certain tackle styles are banned

Because rugby is low speed grabass

Less balls grabbing.

They don't actually try to hit the opposing players with their heads..?