The use of “smelling salts” is being banned by the NFL for this upcoming season, the league announced in a memo to teams Tuesday. The league cited a 2024 warning by the FDA about smelling salts and other ammonia inhalants, and the ban extends to pregame activities, games and halftime on the sidelines and in the locker rooms. “In 2024, …
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The NFL has banned the use of smelling salts, a disappointed George Kittle revealed on live television Tuesday. As the NFL Network crew interviewed linebacker Fred Warner at San Francisco 49ers training camp, they were joined by a surprise guest. Kittle came over to the set, initially standing behind Warner and joking around. But the 49ers tight end was given …
Read More »SANTA CLARA, Calif. (AP) — The NFL is banning the use of “smelling salts” during games, saying the products aren’t proven to be safe and also could mask signs of a concussion. The league sent a memo to teams on Tuesday explaining the decision to ban smelling salts and any other ammonia inhalant during pregame activities, games and halftime on …
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Nick WagonerAug 5, 2025, 06:08 PM ET Close Nick Wagoner is an NFL reporter at ESPN. Nick has covered the San Francisco 49ers since 2016, having previously covered the St. Louis Rams for 12 years, including three years (2013 to 2015) at ESPN. In over a decade with the company, Nick has led ESPN’s coverage of the Niners’ 2019 and …
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49ers tight end George Kittle broke news to NFL Media on Tuesday: The league has banned smelling salts, citing a player-safety issue. Kittle told NFL Media he previously used ammonia packets every drive. “I considered retirement. We have to figure out a middle ground,” Kittle jokingly said. There will be no middle ground. The NFL Head, Neck, and Spine Committee …
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