San Francisco 49ers tight end George Kittle made an unexpected appearance during teammate Fred Warner’s interview on NFL Network Tuesday, to share his frustration about the NFL’s recent ban on ammonia and smelling salts. The league announced the ban via a memo, which was distributed to all teams on Tuesday morning.
NFL Bans Smelling Salts and Ammonia
The new rule, which takes effect this season, prohibits teams from providing or supplying any form of ammonia, including capsules, inhalers, and smelling salts, during games. This includes all game-related activities such as pregame warm-ups, halftime, and both the locker room and sideline areas.
The decision follows a warning issued by the FDA in 2024, which questioned the safety and efficacy of ammonia inhalants (AIs), commonly used for boosting energy and mental alertness.
According to the memo, the FDA’s warning highlighted potential health risks from using ammonia inhalants, including their ability to mask signs of concussion. As a result, the NFL’s Head, Neck, and Spine Committee recommended banning the use of these substances in the league.
George Kittle’s Reaction
Kittle, known for his energetic and often humorous personality, took the opportunity to express his displeasure with the ban in a lighthearted way. He interrupted Warner’s interview to announce, “I honestly just came up here to air a grievance.” Kittle explained that he had received the memo and had been upset about the ban all day.
The veteran tight end revealed that he is a regular user of smelling salts, especially before each offensive drive, to help boost his energy. “I miss those already,” Kittle added, clearly disappointed by the new rule.
A Joking Consideration of Retirement
In true Kittle fashion, the 29-year-old joked that the ban was such a blow that he even considered retirement. “I considered retirement,” Kittle said with a smile. “We have got to figure out a middle ground here, guys. Somebody help me out.”
Kittle ended his brief rant by asking for someone to come up with a better solution, all the while maintaining his trademark sense of humor.
While Kittle’s reaction was largely playful, the NFL’s new rule banning ammonia and smelling salts reflects an increasing focus on player safety, particularly concerning potential head injuries like concussions.
The league’s decision comes after concerns raised by the FDA about the long-term health risks associated with the use of these substances. For players like Kittle, who have relied on smelling salts for a mental and physical boost, this change will undoubtedly take some getting used to.
