Except when a big star doesn’t show up or gets injured, it’s rare that NFL minicamps make many headlines.

That could change this month.

NFL teams will be trying out a new helmet, the VICIS Zero 1, that the league and players’ union hope will be more effective in trying to limit head trauma. The new product topped independent testing of 33 helmets conducted in Canada by the league and NFLPA. The results, which included testing the impact at three velocities and in eight locations on each helmet, were sent to each team and to the players.

The Zero 1 is the first to account for rotational as well as linear impact. Scientific studies have indicated that rotational impact has more correlation with concussions.

“All helmets that are certified are available for players to wear, we just take another step with which ones tested best in the lab,” said Jeff Miller, the NFL’s executive vice president of health and safety policies. “We make it clear in our communications, this is just lab testing and how that translates to on the field is an open issue.”

CHIEFS: Kansas City released wide receiver Jeremy Maclin, cutting ties with one of the most high-profile free-agent signings made by General Manager John Dorsey and Coach Andy Reid.

The unexpected move came after the Chiefs wrapped up the second week of voluntary workouts.

Maclin was entering the third year of a $55 million, five-year contract with Kansas City.

SEAHAWKS: Coach Pete Carroll said he believes Colin Kaepernick can still be a starting quarterback in the NFL. It just won’t be in Seattle, for now.

Seattle had Kaepernick in for a meeting last week as it continued to examine options at quarterback behind starter Russell Wilson.

BRONCOS: Backup safety Will Parks could face a suspension from the NFL following a domestic violence arrest earlier this offseason.

RAVENS: Tight end Dennis Pitta reinjured the same troublesome right hip that already has been surgically repaired twice.

BENGALS: Second-round draft pick Joe Mixon signed.

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