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Giants Accuse Chiefs of Supplying Smelling Salts to $7M Star During Home Win

 

KANSAS CITY, Mo. — Sep. 22, 2025 — The aftermath of Kansas City’s win over the New York Giants took a dramatic turn as New York officials claimed they have evidence that wide receiver Tyquan Thornton — the team’s $7 million star — used smelling salts on the field moments before a play began.

A video circulating on social media appears to show Thornton bending down, cracking open a small vial, and taking a sharp inhale before lining up wide. According to the Giants, this goes beyond personal use and raises suspicions that the Chiefs supplied the smelling salts, a direct violation of the NFL’s newly implemented 2025 ban.

The accusations surfaced amid scrutiny over Thornton’s explosive performance: 10 receptions for 162 yards and two touchdowns, including a blistering 58-yard score in the third quarter that broke the game open and showcased elite speed and separation.

“The rule is clear — teams are not allowed to provide smelling salts to players. If this video is what it appears to be, there’s reason to believe Kansas City crossed the line,” the Giants owner said after the game. “We will be submitting our evidence to the league. Fair play has to be protected.”

The NFL has yet to issue a formal response. Should the accusation hold, the Chiefs could face significant fines and disciplinary action against team personnel, though the game result itself would not be overturned.

Thornton declined to directly address the video, telling reporters only: “I’m focused on playing football and helping my team win.”

If confirmed, this would mark the first high-profile case tied to the league’s new smelling salts policy, adding a layer of controversy to Kansas City’s victory.

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Steelers Add Two Former Packers Fan Favorites to Practice Squad To Strengthen Defense Ahead Of Browns Game
  PITTSBURGH – On Wednesday, October 8, 2025, the Pittsburgh Steelers welcomed two linebackers formerly with the Green Bay Packers for a workout session. The players invited were Michael Barrett and Isaiah Simmons, as the team looks to bolster its defensive unit ahead of upcoming games. Isaiah Simmons, selected as the 8th overall pick in the 2020 NFL Draft out of Clemson, has appeared in 84 games. He has recorded 329 tackles (226 solo, 103 assisted), 8.5 sacks (74 yards), 5 interceptions (127 yards), 2 interception touchdowns, 9 forced fumbles, and 3 fumble recoveries. Simmons, who briefly signed with the Packers in 2025 but didn’t make the final roster, is known for his versatility and impressive speed. Michael Barrett, a 7th-round pick (240th overall) by the Carolina Panthers in the 2024 NFL Draft out of Michigan, has limited NFL experience. He has appeared in a few games on practice squads with teams like the Packers and Browns but has yet to record significant stats (0 tackles, sacks, or interceptions). At Michigan, Barrett had a standout final college season with 65 tackles, 3 sacks, and 3 forced fumbles. Alex Highsmith, a key linebacker for the Steelers, suffered a high ankle sprain during the team’s Week 2 loss to the Seattle Seahawks on September 14, 2025. The injury sidelined him for Weeks 3 and 4, with an estimated recovery time of 4-6 weeks. While Highsmith was not placed on injured reserve to maintain roster flexibility, he is still recovering post-bye week and expected to return soon. However, the Steelers are seeking temporary replacements for the edge rusher position. The workouts with Barrett and Simmons reflect head coach Mike Tomlin’s cautious approach to adding depth to the defense, especially after releasing Ja’Whaun Bentley and losing Jon Rhattigan to the Raiders. Simmons, with his experience and athleticism, could be an ideal short-term option to support T.J. Watt and Nick Herbig. The Steelers have not yet announced any contract decisions regarding the two linebackers. SOURCE: https://x.com/FarabaughFB/status/1976031373946388722