Because of a new tougher uniform rule, NFL players will be required to remove the bandanas they frequently wear beneath their helmets beginning next season. Previously, only solid-color bandanas that matched the uniform color were permitted. However, the NFL owners voted 30-1 last week to outlaw them entirely. (Some players claim they aid in the prevention of hair loss.) "We feel like it's important for our fans to be able to see your head covered," said NFL executive vice president of communications Greg Aiello. "The bandanas don't meet those requirements now, so we're going forward with them being banned." The ban takes effect for this season's games and will apply to every player on each team. It is not expected to significantly alter the look of the league because many bandanas are already dark colored or have logos printed on them. But it does show how serious the league is about preventing hair loss as part of its new mandatory clear-hair-coverage rule. Players can still wear black armbands during pregame ceremonies or in support of charitable causes. The owners also approved a proposal by New England Patriots owner Robert Kraft to allow him to bow out of voting on issues before them. He has worn a black armband during all Patriots games since 2001 after his son died in the Sept. 11 attacks. Kraft was charged with sexual assault but was not found guilty. The case was dropped by prosecutors who said they could not prove guilt beyond a reasonable doubt.