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15 hours ago
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It's safe to say San Francisco 49ers star tight end George Kittle is not a fan of the NFL news rules.
During a live broadcast of the NFL Network, Kittle interrupted to announce the NFL had banned smelling salts and ammonia packets.
The six-time Pro Bowler joked that the ruling nearly ended his career on the spot.
“I considered retirement," Kittle said, according to NFL Network's Mike Garafolo. "We have to figure out a middle ground."
#49ers George Kittle just crashed our set to break news that the NFL banned smelling salts and ammonia packets today. Says he uses them every drive.
“I considered retirement. We have to figure out a middle ground.” pic.twitter.com/g8FJxJ1d5z
The tongue-in-cheek response masks what is obviously an under-the-radar ruling for the league.
Smelling salts have been used for decades by players as a way to temporarily enhance alertness and focus.
No doubt, the new rule will be a major talking point now that Kittle has spilled the tea.
Further, 49ers fans are hopeful smelling salts aren't the secret to Kittle's success.
San Francisco traded away Deebo Samuel this offseason and doesn't expect Brandon Aiyuk to be ready for the start of the season.
With Jauan Jennings sitting out with a calf injury - and possible contract dispute - and Rickey Pearsall nursing a hamstring, Kittle may be Brock Purdy's go-to pass-catcher early in the year.
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