Shoulder pads have seen drastic changes over the years. The once heavy and bulky pads of the late 1900s have been changed into a more compact and light design allowing players to move more freely. Generally skilled positions will have smaller pads and linemen will have bigger pads, but it isn't always like that. Smaller pads allow players to most and be faster, it also allows a player to catch a ball more easily.
NFL Throwback website
According to Sideline Swap the best football pad of 2023 is the Riddell Power SPX. This shoulder pad allows excellent protection, speed, and comfort for the players that wear it. It delivers lightweight comfort engineered to provide the best protection. If you want to see the other rankings click the link below!
Riddell best pads
Sideline Swap Rankings