NFL clarifies smelling salts ban only applies to team-provided items
George Kittle got his wish.
NFL players are still permitted to use smelling salts, the NFLPA clarified to its players in a memo Wednesday, according to ESPN's Kalyn Kahler.
The new policy restricts teams from providing players with smelling salts, but doesn't prohibit players from using them at their own behest.
Kittle, who was under the impression that the new rule banned all use of smelling salts and ammonia packets, crashed teammate Fred Warner's NFL Network interview Tuesday to air his grievance.
"I've been distraught all day," the San Francisco 49ers tight end said. He joked about retiring if he couldn't use smelling salts.
George Kittle crashed the NFL Network set to drop the news that the league banned smelling salts and ammonia packets today — and he admits he uses them every single drive. pic.twitter.com/1orx0wzhOa
— Awful Announcing (@awfulannouncing) August 5, 2025
"We have got to figure out a middle ground here, guys. Somebody help me out," Kittle added. "Somebody come up with a good idea. That's all I had to get out there. Get that off my chest."
The NFL cited a 2024 warning from the FDA regarding the "potential negative effects" of ammonia inhalants in a league-wide memo, according to ESPN's Nick Wagoner. The memo also cautions that using these inhalants can mask neurological symptoms, including those used to identify a concussion.