In a significant development for the NFL, the league's competition committee and health and safety committee have recommended banning the controversial play known as the “tush push.” This play, famously executed by the Philadelphia Eagles, involves the quarterback sneaking forward while teammates push him from behind, resembling a rugby scrum. The proposal, which originated from the Green Bay Packers, is set for a vote among team owners on Wednesday, according to league sources.
The push to ban the tush push began earlier this year when the Packers formally submitted their proposal to the NFL’s competition committee in February. Packers head coach Matt LaFleur argued that the play does not align with traditional football values due to its rugby-like characteristics. The proposed new ruling would prohibit any offensive player from pushing, pulling, lifting, or assisting the runner, except through individual blocking of opponents.
LaFleur and several other coaches have raised concerns about the potential injury risks associated with the tush push. However, Rich McKay, the chair of the NFL’s competition committee and CEO of the Atlanta Falcons, stated that the league has not found any evidence indicating that the play jeopardizes player safety. This discrepancy has sparked heated discussions among coaches, executives, and players throughout the league.
The Philadelphia Eagles have strongly defended the tush push, which they have mastered over recent seasons. At the NFL scouting combine, Eagles head coach Nick Sirianni expressed that it would be “unfair” to ban a play simply because the Eagles have excelled at it. Meanwhile, Eagles general manager Howie Roseman engaged in a lively discussion with Rams coach Sean McVay and Bills coach Sean McDermott during the league meetings in April.
Eagles owner Jeffrey Lurie also addressed the concerns about player safety during the league meeting, asserting, “Health and safety is the most important thing when evaluating any play.” Lurie emphasized that there has been no data suggesting that the tush push is unsafe, stating, “If it weren’t safe, we wouldn’t be advocating for it.”
No team in the NFL utilizes the quarterback sneak as effectively as the Eagles. Data from TruMedia reveals that the Eagles have executed the QB sneak 122 times in 1-yard-to-go situations since 2022, significantly outpacing other teams such as the Bills (74), Steelers (55), and Broncos (52). During this period, the Eagles scored 30 touchdowns and gained 105 first downs, showcasing the play's effectiveness.
The tush push is not without its physical demands. Former Eagles center Jason Kelce has spoken candidly about the toll it takes on players, describing it as “grueling.” During an appearance on TNT’s “The Steam Room,” Kelce remarked, “For me, as a center, it sucks.” Despite the challenges, he defended the play, highlighting the essence of football as a battle of physicality and willpower.
Current Eagles center Cam Jurgens shared his thoughts on the potential ban, stating, “If they ban it, they ban it. It’s out of my control. I feel like it’s a fun play for us to run, and we run it really well. It’d be a shame if they take it out of our hands.” In contrast, wide receiver A.J. Brown had a more laid-back perspective, humorously noting, “It’s only one yard.”
The upcoming vote among NFL team owners will determine the fate of the tush push. As the league grapples with the balance between player safety and the competitive advantages of certain plays, the decision will undoubtedly have lasting implications for the game. Fans and players alike await the outcome with anticipation.
