Oh, give me a break …
George Kittle, a tight end for the San Francisco 49ers, broke the news Tuesday to NFL Media that the league has decided to ban smelling salts. The ridiculous move is being done based off of an apparent player-safety issue.
While speaking with NFL Media, Kittle said that he’s previously used ammonia packets, doing so on every drive.
“I considered retirement. We have to figure out a middle ground,” said Kittle jokingly.
But the problem is, a middle ground isn’t an option. (RELATED: Vikings’ Jordan Addison Suspended After DUI Arrest)
A recommendation from the NFL Head, Neck and Spine Committee prohibits ammonia inhalants from being used for any reason following a 2024 FDA warning, and a memo was sent to all franchises from the National Football League.
The warning from the FDA that was issued to companies that make ammonia inhalants that are commercially available, including to consumers, referenced there being no evidence to support either the efficacy or safety of inhalants that are marketing the improvement of boosting energy or mental alertness. The FDA also put a spotlight on possible negative effects if inhalants are used.
There’s concern from the NFL Head, Neck and Spine Committee that ammonia inhalants could possibly mask particular neurologic symptoms, which could include concussion signs.
“In light of this information, effective for the 2025 NFL season, clubs are prohibited from providing or supplying ammonia in any form at NFL games,” wrote the National Football League in the memo to franchises, per NBC Sports’ Pro Football Talk.
“For clarity, ‘ammonia’ refers to ammonia capsules, inhalers, ammonia in a cup and any form of ‘smelling salts.’ This prohibition applies to call club personnel (including but not limited to team physicians, athletic trainers, strength and conditioning coaches and coaches or other personnel). This prohibition applies through the entirety of all NFL games, including during all pregame activities, and halftime, and applies on the sideline and in stadium locker rooms.”
Here was #49ers TE George Kittle stating his case for a reconsideration of the banning of smelling salts and ammonia inhalants today. https://t.co/p6WRZArY9L pic.twitter.com/MNZNNjdVT3
— Mike Garafolo (@MikeGarafolo) August 5, 2025
Soft, soft, soft … can’t say it enough about the No Fun League.
