This week in the NFL world, smelling salts have been a hot topic. Initially, there were conflicting reports about whether players would be permitted to use them during games. Ultimately, the NFL Players Association clarified that teams can no longer provide smelling salts to players directly, but individual players can bring and use them on their own.
Curious about how smelling salts are used? On Thursday’s “First Things First,” hosts Nick Wright, Chris Broussard, Kevin Wildes, and former NFL wide receiver Greg Jennings all tried smelling salts live on air, and it was quite a challenge for them. San Francisco 49ers star tight end George Kittle even reacted to the segment on X, calling it “real journalism.”
Earlier in the week, Kittle disclosed on NFL networks that there is now a ban on providing smelling salts and ammonia during games, though two All-Pro players confirmed they still use smelling salts on every drive. While smelling salts are used to stimulate players’ alertness, they carry a risk of lung damage. Notably, Kittle recently signed a four-year, $76.4 million extension with the 49ers.
Fans can tune into “First Things First” on Friday at 3 pm ET to see if the hosts try another substance.
Fan Take: This update on smelling salts highlights the NFL’s ongoing efforts to balance player safety with performance. For fans, it’s a reminder that even the smallest game-day rituals can have big implications for health and the future of how players prepare on the field.
