The NFL has officially banned the use of smelling salts and ammonia inhalants during games starting with the 2025 season. The decision, detailed in a memo sent to all 32 teams, has drawn particular criticism from San Francisco 49ers All-Pro tight end George Kittle , who openly voiced his frustration during a live NFL Network segment.

Kittle, a nine-year veteran and regular user of smelling salts, interrupted teammate Fred Warner’s interview to air what he called a personal grievance .

“I honestly just came up here to air a grievance,” said the 31-year-old tight end. “Our team got a memo today that smelling salts and ammonia packets were made illegal in the NFL, and I've been distraught all day.”

The seasoned tight end even joked that the memo was frustrating enough to make him con

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