Buffalo Bills quarterback Josh Allen is again at the center of controversy after questions surfaced about his use of smelling salts during games. According to reports, Allen was administered smelling salts on the sideline after sustaining a nose injury in the Bills’ Week 2 win over the New York Jets. The quick jolt appeared to help him regain focus and return to the field almost immediately.
The incident has drawn fresh scrutiny following the Bills’ Week 3 matchup against the Miami Dolphins. Miami staff reportedly expressed frustration, suggesting Allen may have continued to rely on smelling salts during the game. They argue the stimulant effect could have given him an unnatural boost in energy and intensity, particularly in the second half when his performance remained strong despite repeated pressure.
Smelling salts, which release ammonia gas, trigger a sharp inhalation that heightens alertness. While not classified as a banned substance, the NFL has recently restricted teams from supplying them to players, citing concerns that they could mask concussion symptoms or create an unfair advantage. Players may still use them individually, but the league’s rules are now under stricter enforcement.
The Dolphins’ complaint centers on whether Allen’s sideline use of smelling salts crosses into a gray area of competitive balance. Miami coaches privately questioned how the Bills’ $258 million quarterback seemed to gain a burst of energy late in the game, even after taking several hits.
Neither the Bills nor Allen have publicly addressed the allegations. However, league officials are monitoring the situation closely as part of their broader focus on player safety and the regulation of stimulants in competition.
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