Skip to content

Aaron Rodgers' Smelling Salts Use Reignites Safety Debate

Rodgers' unusual mid-game tactic has reignited the smelling salts debate. Are they safe for players, or do the risks outweigh the benefits?

This photo is clicked on ground where many people are playing American football. The man in green...
This photo is clicked on ground where many people are playing American football. The man in green t-shirt wearing yellow helmet is holding American football in his hand. In front of him, we see grass.

Aaron Rodgers' Smelling Salts Use Reignites Safety Debate

Green Bay Packers quarterback Aaron Rodgers made headlines when he used smelling salts mid-game during a match against his former team. The incident has reignited debate about the safety of smelling salts in sports, with the FDA warning about potential negative effects and the NFL previously banning their use.

Rodgers was seen using the smelling salts during the game against the Cincinnati Bengals prior to the Green Bay match. The NFL's ban on smelling salts, implemented in 2011, prohibits teams from providing them to players but allows players to bring their own. However, the NFL has not issued an official statement regarding a specific ban on smelling salts.

San Francisco 49ers tight end George Kittle expressed concern about the ban on smelling salts in a live interview, suggesting that they could help players stay alert and focused during games. The FDA, however, has warned about the lack of evidence supporting the safety or efficacy of smelling salts, especially when used in closed spaces or in large amounts.

Aaron Rodgers' use of smelling salts has sparked discussion about their role in sports. While some players argue they enhance performance, the FDA's warning and the NFL's past ban raise concerns about player safety. As the NFL has not provided clear guidelines on smelling salts, players and teams should consider the potential risks and benefits.

Latest