Following initial confusion over a league-wide directive, the NFL has clarified its new policy on smelling salts for the upcoming season. While teams are now prohibited from supplying ammonia inhalants, players remain free to use their own personal supply.
The situation began Tuesday when the NFL issued a memo to all 32 clubs, stating they were banned from providing ammonia in any form during the 2025 season. The directive, which applies to all team personnel during pregame, halftime, and in-game activities, was based on a recommendation from the league’s head, neck, and spine committee. The committee cited a 2024 FDA warning that such inhalants could potentially mask neurological symptoms, including those of a concussion.
The initial memo was widely interpreted as a complete ban, prompting public dismay from several veteran players. San Francisco 49ers tight end George Kittle told the NFL Network he was “distraught,” while Tampa Bay Buccaneers linebacker Lavonte David expressed uncertainty, stating, “I don’t know what I’m going to do.”
In response to the uncertainty, the NFL Players Association sought clarification from the league. On Wednesday evening, the union confirmed to its members that the policy does not prohibit player use. In a message to players, the NFLPA stated, “this policy does not prohibit player use of these substances, but rather it restricts clubs from providing or supplying them in any form. The NFL has confirmed this to us.”
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