‘I considered retirement’ — George Kittle slams NFL’s new decision and opens up about how much it’s affecting some players
San Francisco 49ers tight end George Kittle is making a bit of a stand. It is in a unique way that no fan or piece of the NFL media could have predicted before today. Smelling salts are at the center of the discussion as training camp rages on around the league. George Kittle discusses recent […]
San Francisco 49ers tight end George Kittle is making a bit of a stand. It is in a unique way that no fan or piece of the NFL media could have predicted before today. Smelling salts are at the center of the discussion as training camp rages on around the league.
George Kittle discusses recent NFL rule change
The 49ers tight end “broke news” on Tuesday afternoon regarding a potential banning of smelling salts and ammonia packets around the NFL. He revealed that he uses them every drive during games.
George Kittle mentioned that he even considered retirement due to this change. This comment certainly could have been a bit tongue-in-cheek, as we know Kittle loves to joke around with NFL personalities, but his frustration did seem legitimate. He thinks that this choice by the NFL is a game changer around the league.
Shortly after this interaction on television, the NFL’s memo sent to teams regarding this decision was made public on social media. Kittle was telling the truth.
“In 2024, the FDA issued a warning to companies that produce commercially available ammonia inhalants (Als), as well as to consumers about the purchase and use of Als, regarding the lack of evidence supporting the safety or efficacy of Als marketed for improving mental alertness or boosting energy. The FDA noted potential negative effects from Al use. Als also have the potential to mask certain neurologic signs and symptoms, including some potential signs of concussion. As a result, the NFL Head, Neck, and Spine Committee recommended prohibiting the use of Als for any purpose
during play in the NFL.
In light of this information, effective for the 2025 NFL season, clubs are prohibited from providing or supplying ammonia in any form at NFL games. For clarity, “ammonia” refers to ammonia capsules, inhalers, ammonia in a cup, and any form of “smelling salts.” This prohibition applies to all club personnel (including but not limited to team physicians, athletic trainers, strength and conditioning
coaches and coaches or other personnel). The prohibition applies through the entirety of all NFL games, including during all pregame activities, and halftime, and applies on the
sideline and in stadium locker rooms.” — NFL’s memo to teams via Mike Garafolo
Kittle’s reaction here is genuine. He believes that this can have major implications for a lot of players around the NFL. We will see if there are any more updates surrounding this decision by the league. For now, plenty of players will need to adjust this season and beyond.
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