Aaron Rodgers Appears to Use Smelling Salts Amid NFL Ban, Sparks Sideline Outburst
The quarterback's use of the banned substance and subsequent argument with coach Mike McCarthy were caught on camera during a recent game.
Pittsburgh Steelers quarterback Aaron Rodgers was seen appearing to use smelling salts while in the huddle during the team's loss to the Cleveland Browns on Thursday night. The NFL has prohibited teams from distributing smelling salts directly to players, though athletes are permitted to use their own supply. Rodgers has previously been observed using the substance, drawing attention during his first season with the Steelers.
The NFL's stance on smelling salts stems from a 2024 FDA warning regarding the product's efficacy and potential to mask neurological signs, including concussion symptoms. The league's Head, Neck, and Spine Committee recommended prohibiting their use during play.
Moments after appearing to inhale the smelling salts, Rodgers was captured on camera shouting at head coach Mike McCarthy during a first-quarter confusion over play calls. Video footage showed McCarthy appearing to respond with an expletive.
This is not the first instance of Rodgers expressing frustration on the sidelines this season. He was previously seen on camera during the Steelers' win over the Cincinnati Bengals, expressing dissatisfaction with a play call. Following the team's 20-3 loss to the New England Patriots, Rodgers commented on the need for better play-calling and offensive execution, stating, "And that starts with me at making sure Mike knows what's working, what's not working, our coaches know, so we can call stuff that we feel like has a better chance."
Buffalo Bills quarterback Josh Allen was also recently seen using smelling salts, notably placing the packet between his teeth during a game against the Detroit Lions. The practice has drawn commentary from players, with San Francisco 49ers tight end George Kittle previously expressing his dismay over the ban on the substance.
