George Kittle has been critical of a new NFL ban and even joked about possibly retiring in response. But it’s probably not as bad as it seems.

Roll back! NFL players will apparently be allowed to continue using smelling salts after all.

Initially, it was assumed that the use of smelling salts and substances containing ammonia would be banned for the coming season. This applies to capsules, inhalers, mixed liquids in a cup or even for smelling. A memo to this effect was sent out to players by the NFLPA on Wednesday.

The ban was to apply to the game, but also to warm-ups, halftime, and activities on the sidelines during the game.

This decision angered some players, including George Kittle, who publicly expressed their disapproval. The NFLPA responded by clarifying the situation.

The new statement better clarifies the new rule. NFL teams are only prohibited from organizing and providing such substances to players. Players themselves may use them at their own risk. It just has to be done without the support of their franchise.

NFL ban: Kittle jokingly threatens to end his career

The San Francisco 49ers tight end even interrupted an interview with his colleague Fred Warner on the NFL Network before the new statement was released.

A new study by the FDA (Food & Drug Administration) warns against the use of smelling salts and ammonia. Ultimately, their effectiveness and safety cannot be proven. There remains “a residual risk of neurological damage.”

As a result, the NFL decided to ban these substances and applications for the protection and safety of the players. “I need to get this off my chest. I’ve been deeply disturbed since I found out,” Kittle, who regularly uses smelling salts, confessed in the interview. Apparently even before every offensive drive: “I already miss it.”

Kittle has been part of the NFL for nine years. He joked, “I’m thinking about ending my career. But no, seriously. We have to find a middle ground here. Someone has to help me. Someone has to have a good idea. That was all I had before I went out on the field. Help me.”

They helped him. And gave him a chance to pursue the matter further.