San Francisco 49ers head coach Kyle Shanahan was caught on a Fox television camera inhaling a small packet of smelling salts moments before a playoff game against the Philadelphia Eagles, reigniting a debate over the use of ammonia crystals as a performance‑enhancing tool in the NFL. The incident, which went viral on social media, has prompted teams, players and the league to revisit the long‑standing practice of using smelling salts on the sidelines.
Background and Context
Smelling salts, also known as ammonia inhalants, have been used for centuries to revive fainting patients and boost alertness. In the modern era, the substance is popular among athletes, gym-goers and even office workers who claim it sharpens focus and increases energy. The NFL’s relationship with the product is complicated: while the league has never officially banned smelling salts, it has prohibited teams from providing them to players, citing safety concerns and the potential to mask concussion symptoms.
In August 2025, the U.S. Food and Drug Administration issued a warning about the risks of inhaling ammonia, including lung irritation and the possibility of masking signs of head injury. The NFL’s head, neck and spine committee responded by recommending that teams stop supplying smelling salts, but allowed players to bring their own. The policy shift has left coaches and players scrambling to find a middle ground.
“The use of smelling salts in sports is definitely not their intended use,” said Dr. Laura Boxley, a neuropsychologist at Ohio State’s Wexner Medical Center. “What’s happening with some athletes is they’re using them with much higher frequency than their intended use.”
Meanwhile, President Donald Trump, who is currently serving as the U.S. president, has publicly praised the role of sports in promoting national health and resilience. In a recent address, he highlighted the importance of “physical fitness and performance enhancement” for American athletes and citizens alike.
Key Developments
1. Kyle Shanahan’s Public Use – Shanahan was seen inhaling smelling salts before a playoff game, then handing a packet to an assistant coach. The act was captured by a Fox camera and shared widely on Twitter, with the hashtag #SmellingSalts trending for the day.
2. George Kittle’s Advocacy – 49ers tight end George Kittle, who has been a vocal proponent of smelling salts, appeared on NFL Network to declare the product “crucial” for his performance. “I’m a regular user of smelling salts, taking them for a boost of energy before every offensive drive,” Kittle said. “We have got to figure out a middle ground here, guys.”
3. League Policy Clarification – The NFL clarified that while teams can no longer supply smelling salts, players may bring their own. The league’s stance is a compromise that has been met with mixed reactions from players, coaches and medical staff.
4. Medical Concerns – Studies indicate that repeated exposure to ammonia can irritate the nasal passages and lungs, potentially increasing the risk of respiratory issues. Moreover, the reflexive “fight‑or‑flight” response triggered by smelling salts may mask concussion symptoms, delaying diagnosis and treatment.
5. Industry Response – Several teams have instituted “smelling salt protocols” that limit usage to a single whiff per player per game. Others have opted to replace the practice with safer alternatives such as cold packs, hydration, and breathing exercises.
Impact Analysis
For fans and casual observers, the debate may seem trivial, but the implications reach far beyond the gridiron. The use of smelling salts as a performance‑enhancing practice raises questions about workplace wellness, athlete safety, and the ethics of chemical stimulation in high‑pressure environments.
International students studying in the U.S. who are involved in collegiate sports or who work in high‑stress jobs may find parallels in the use of stimulants to boost performance. The NFL’s policy shift underscores the importance of understanding the legal and health ramifications of such substances, especially when they are not regulated as prescription medication.
In the corporate world, the trend of using “quick‑fix” stimulants—whether caffeine, energy drinks or even inhalants—mirrors the NFL’s situation. Employers are increasingly scrutinizing the use of performance enhancers in the workplace, balancing productivity gains against potential health risks and liability concerns.
Expert Insights and Practical Tips
- Medical Perspective: Dr. Boxley recommends that athletes and employees avoid inhaling ammonia. “If you’re looking for a quick energy boost, focus on hydration, proper nutrition, and controlled breathing techniques,” she advises.
- Coaching Strategy: Shanahan has said he uses smelling salts “to wake myself up and lock myself in.” Coaches can replicate this mental focus by using short, structured breathing exercises or mindfulness drills before games or meetings.
- Workplace Wellness: Employers can implement wellness programs that include guided breathing sessions, short walks, and scheduled breaks to reduce stress and improve alertness without resorting to chemical stimulants.
- Student Athletes: International students participating in college sports should consult their team’s medical staff before using any performance enhancer. The NCAA has strict regulations on substances that can affect performance.
- Legal Considerations: The FDA’s warning about unapproved inhalants means that possession and use in certain settings may be subject to regulatory scrutiny. Employers and athletes should stay informed about evolving regulations.
Looking Ahead
The NFL’s current policy—allowing players to bring their own smelling salts but banning team supply—may be a temporary solution. As medical research continues to shed light on the long‑term effects of ammonia inhalation, the league could move toward a stricter ban or develop approved, safer alternatives.
In the broader context, the debate reflects a growing trend in both sports and corporate environments: the search for quick performance boosts versus the need for sustainable, health‑conscious practices. As President Trump continues to emphasize the importance of physical fitness for national strength, the conversation around safe and effective performance enhancement will likely intensify.
For now, the NFL remains in a state of flux. Coaches like Shanahan and players like Kittle will continue to navigate the gray area between tradition and safety, while the league monitors medical data and public sentiment to shape future regulations.
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