Overview

• The league’s memo prohibits all ammonia inhalants during pregame activities, games, halftime and in locker rooms for the 2025 season.
• The ban follows a 2024 FDA warning about the lack of safety data for smelling salts and a directive from the NFL Head, Neck and Spine Committee to prevent masking concussion symptoms.
• 49ers tight end George Kittle crashed an NFL Network interview on Aug. 5 to disclose the ban, joking that he had considered retirement and calling for a ‘middle ground’ solution.
• Smelling salts have been widely used by players as a sideline stimulant to boost alertness and counter fatigue.
• Teams and players are now adapting to the rule while exploring alternative methods to maintain focus without compromising concussion protocols.