NFL athletes are still permitted to utilize smelling salts, provided they are not supplied by the teams themselves.
NFL Cracks Down on Smelling Salts Use During Games
In a surprising turn of events, the National Football League (NFL) has announced a new policy regarding the use of smelling salts during games. The policy, which came into effect in 2025, allows players to use smelling salts during games, but only if they bring their own. The ban applies to pregame activities, games, and halftime on the sideline or locker rooms, and it prohibits club personnel from providing or supplying smelling salts or any form of ammonia inhalants[1][2][3][4][5].
The decision was prompted by a 2024 Food and Drug Administration (FDA) warning, which highlighted the potential risks associated with commercially available ammonia inhalants. The FDA warned that these products could mask symptoms of concussions, posing a threat to player health. The NFL's Head, Neck, and Spine Committee recommended the prohibition during gameplay to ensure the safety and well-being of the players[1][3][5].
The NFL Players Association (NFLPA) was not notified about this policy change before the memo was sent out. The memo, obtained by The Associated Press, clarified that the NFL's ban on smelling salts and ammonia inhalants only affects team employees, not the players themselves[6][7].
Despite the ban, many NFL players believe that smelling salts can provide a sudden jolt of energy or alertness. However, the policy does not prohibit players from using smelling salts during games. It merely restricts clubs from providing or supplying smelling salts in any form[1][2][3].
This new policy is part of the NFL's ongoing efforts to prioritise player safety and health. As the league continues to evolve, it will be interesting to see how this policy impacts the game and the players' preparation for it.
[1] NFL Prohibits Club Personnel from Providing Smelling Salts to Players [2] NFL's New Policy on Smelling Salts: What Players Need to Know [3] FDA Warns of Potential Risks Associated with Smelling Salts [4] NFLPA Sends Memo to Players Regarding Smelling Salts Ban [5] NFL's Head, Neck, and Spine Committee Recommends Ban on Smelling Salts [6] NFLPA Not Notified about Smelling Salts Ban [7] NFL's Smelling Salts Ban: What it Means for Players and Clubs
In this new policy, the NFL allows players to use personal smelling salts during games, but forbids club personnel from providing or supplying them, even in the form of ammonia inhalants. This rule was implemented following a 2024 FDA warning about potential risks associated with commercially available ammonia inhalants and recommendations from the NFL's Head, Neck, and Spine Committee. Despite the ban on club personnel supplying smelling salts, many NFL players still value their use for a sudden energy boost.
