Home / Sports / NFL Clarifies Smelling Salts Policy, Allows Player-Supplied Use
NFL Clarifies Smelling Salts Policy, Allows Player-Supplied Use
7 Aug
Summary
- NFL memo banned clubs from providing smelling salts, not player use
- Players like Kittle and David were initially "distraught" over the ban
- NFL confirmed policy only restricts clubs, not individual player use
In a recent development, the NFL has clarified its policy on the use of smelling salts during games. On August 5th, 2025, the league sent a memo to all 32 clubs stating that they would be prohibited from providing or supplying ammonia in any form starting in the 2025 season. This decision was made based on a warning from the FDA in 2024 about the potential negative effects of ammonia inhalants.
However, the NFL Players Association sought clarification on this policy change and received confirmation from the league that the ban only applies to clubs, not individual players. The union's message to players on August 6th, 2025 stated that "this policy does not prohibit player use of these substances, but rather it restricts clubs from providing or supplying them in any form."
This news comes as a relief to players like San Francisco 49ers tight end George Kittle and Tampa Bay Buccaneers linebacker Lavonte David, who had initially expressed dismay over the perceived ban. Kittle told the NFL Network that he had been "distraught all day" over the prospect of losing access to smelling salts during games.
With the policy clarification, NFL players can now breathe easy, as they will still be able to use smelling salts as long as they bring their own supply to the games.
