The Philadelphia Eagles have been at the forefront of the NFL's adaptation of the Tush Push quarterback sneak, a play that has gained popularity and notoriety alike in recent years. This rugby-like variation has helped the Eagles secure multiple Super Bowl bids, including their historic championship appearance in 2024. While the play has been both celebrated and criticized on social media, it recently came under official review by the NFL, with all 32 teams deliberating its future during the latest owners' meetings.
The Eagles have made their position clear: they want the Tush Push to remain a staple of their offensive playbook. Head coach Nick Sirianni has been vocal about the team's commitment to perfecting this play, which has shown no significant injury risks. During February's NFL Scouting Combine, Sirianni emphasized the hard work the Eagles have put into mastering the fundamentals of the push. This week, he reiterated that it would be unfair to ban the play simply because other teams have not been able to replicate their success.
A number of teams have expressed support for the Tush Push during the recent discussions. Notably:
Baltimore Ravens: Coach John Harbaugh described the push as a legitimate football play, although he remains open to changing his opinion if medical experts raise concerns. Carolina Panthers: Coach Dave Canales argues that there is no data to suggest the play is inherently dangerous, crediting the Eagles for their execution. Cleveland Browns: Coach Kevin Stefanski stated his opposition to banning the play, suggesting the Browns may incorporate variations in 2025. Houston Texans: Coach DeMeco Ryans expressed that it’s difficult to penalize a team for excelling at a particular strategy, voicing his support for its inclusion. Indianapolis Colts: Coach Shane Steichen, a former offensive coordinator for the Eagles, acknowledges the play's success during their Super Bowl bid. New England Patriots: New coach Mike Vrabel is reportedly passionate about keeping the play in the game, according to ESPN sources. New Orleans Saints: New coach Kellen Moore, another former assistant to Sirianni, stated he is comfortable with the play given the lack of serious injury evidence. New York Jets: New coach Aaron Glenn indicated his role is to stop the play rather than ban it, commending the Eagles for their effective execution.Conversely, several teams have voiced their opposition to the Tush Push:
Atlanta Falcons: Coach Raheem Morris has publicly expressed his dislike for the play and the challenges it poses for his team. Buffalo Bills: Coach Sean McDermott raised concerns about player safety, despite the lack of substantial medical data on the play's risks. Dallas Cowboys: Co-owner Stephen Jones indicated that Dallas will vote against the push, seeking consistency in rule enforcement. Green Bay Packers: As the only team to officially propose a ban on the play this spring, general manager Brian Gutekunst cited player safety and the pace of play as reasons for their proposal. Los Angeles Rams: Coach Sean McVay stated he hopes the play gets banned, expressing that it does not align with traditional football aesthetics.While a vote on the legality of the Tush Push was tabled for future discussions, the debate continues to rage across the league. With 16 teams opposing a proposed ban, the future of this controversial play remains uncertain. As the NFL evolves, the Tush Push stands as a symbol of innovation and contention in modern football strategy.
