What ban? Kyle Shanahan caught on camera using smelling salts before playoff win
The NFL’s ban on smelling salts apparently isn’t stopping Kyle Shanahan.
The 49ers head coach before Sunday’s win over the Philadelphia Eagles was caught by Fox’s TV cameras appearing to use smelling salts moments before the game kicked off.
The NFL instituted a smelling salts ban in August, which 49ers star tight end George Kittle criticized during an NFL Network interview during training camp when he joked: “I considered retirement. We have to figure out a middle ground.”
However, the league didn’t outright ban the use of smelling salts altogether. The ban prohibited team personnel from providing or supplying smelling salts to players and coaches. But they could still acquire and use smelling salts on their own with no penalty.
FDA study on dangers
The NFL’s ban came in light of an FDA study that said inhaling ammonia could be harmful and smelling salts could mask concussion symptoms. The league sent a memo to teams that was obtained by Mike Garafolo of NFL media.
“In 2024, the FDA issued a warning to companies that produce commercially available ammonia inhalants (AIs), as well as to consumers about the purchase and use of AIs, regarding the lack of evidence supporting the safety or efficacy of AIs marketed for improving mental alertness or boosting energy,” the memo said. “The FDA noted potential negative effects from AI use. AIs also have the potential to mask certain neurologic signs and symptoms, including some potential signs of concussion. As a result, the NFL Head, Neck, and Spine Committee recommended prohibiting the use of AIs for any purpose during play in the NFL.”
Sacramento Kings coach Doug Christie has also been known to use them. Though it doesn’t appear to have helped Christie as the Kings are 9-30 in his first full season coach.
Shanahan and the 49ers will look to continue their season in the divisional round of the playoffs on the road against the Seattle Seahawks on Saturday.
