NFL Gamers Can Nonetheless Use Smelling Salts as Lengthy as Not Supplied by Groups

NFL gamers might be allowed to make use of “smelling salts” throughout video games in spite of everything.

The NFLPA despatched a memo to gamers on Wednesday saying that the ban that the league knowledgeable groups about on Tuesday solely prohibits group workers from distributing smelling salts and some other ammonia inhalant throughout pregame actions, video games and halftime on the sideline or locker rooms.

“The NFL Gamers Affiliation is conscious of the memo issued by the league Tuesday concerning using smelling salts and ammonia capsules,” stated the memo to gamers, which was obtained by The Related Press. “We weren’t notified of this membership coverage change earlier than the memo was despatched out. To make clear, this coverage doesn’t prohibit participant use of those substances, however fairly it restricts golf equipment from offering or supplying them in any type. The NFL has confirmed this to us.”

The memo from the league prohibited any membership personnel from offering or supplying merchandise reminiscent of ammonia capsules, inhalers, ammonia in a cup, and any type of “smelling salts.” 

The league cited a warning issued from the Meals and Drug Administration in 2024 that there was no proof citing the “security or efficacy” of the merchandise and that they’ve the potential to masks signs of concussions.

Smelling salts and different comparable merchandise have been a staple on NFL sidelines for years, with many gamers — like San Francisco 49ers tight finish George Kittle — believing they will present a sudden jolt of power or alertness.

Reporting by The Related Press.

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