The ‘tush push' may not survive much longer—NFL owners prepare for a game-changing vote
NFL owners to decide fate of the Eagles' controversial 'tush push' after intense league-wide debate (Getty Images)
The NFL's most debated short-yardage tactic—the infamous "
tush push
"—is back under the spotlight as team owners prepare to revisit a potential ban this week in Eagan, Minnesota. What began as a strategic weapon for the
Philadelphia Eagles
has grown into one of the league's most polarizing topics. The play, which features quarterback
Jalen Hurts
receiving a push from teammates after the snap to power forward for a first down or touchdown, has sparked fierce debate across
NFL
circles.
Eagles' 'tush push' could be history soon as NFL owners ready a defining vote
Originally proposed by the Green Bay Packers ahead of the league's annual meetings, the rule change aimed to permanently outlaw the play under Rule 12, Section 1, citing concerns over "player safety and pace of play." Yet despite being discussed heavily in March, the proposal never reached a vote. It was tabled for additional research and consideration, with league insiders confirming that a vote was finally expected during the May meetings.
— AdamSchefter (@AdamSchefter)
According to ESPN's Adam Schefter, NFL owners are set to cast their votes on Tuesday and Wednesday. The proposal needs 24 of 32 votes to pass, and insiders believe the support might finally be there. Jonathan Jones of CBS Sports reported that 16 teams had already voted in favor of the ban during earlier deliberations, although the league chose to delay the official decision at that time.
Supporters of the ban argue that the play offers an unfair advantage and disrupts the rhythm of the game. Yet, those in favor of keeping the tush push argue that it's a legal and effective tactic that simply capitalizes on smart coaching and physical strength. Despite all the fuss, ESPN notes there's been no conclusive injury data linked directly to the play—only theoretical discussions about player safety.
The controversy erupted in full force after the Eagles used the play to perfection during their Super Bowl showdown against the Kansas City Chiefs. Jalen Hurts, aided by his staggering 600-pound squat strength and seamless coordination with teammates, turned the quarterback sneak into an almost automatic first-down machine. The effectiveness is hard to ignore—Hurts finished tied for fifth in rushing touchdowns in 2024 with 14, pushing his career total to 55 in just four seasons as a starter.
During Day 1 of the offseason meetings, ESPN's Kalyn Kahler reported 'heated' exchanges in the football operations session, highlighting just how divisive this rule change has become. Coaches, owners, and executives remain split, with the Eagles bearing the brunt of the league's scrutiny.
Whether seen as a stroke of innovation or a blemish on the sport's integrity, the tush push has undeniably forced the NFL to rethink how physicality and fairness coexist on the field. As league officials prepare for what could be a decisive vote, one thing is clear—whatever happens next will have long-lasting implications for how football is played in the trenches.
Also Read:
Browns' crowded quarterback room could force a surprising roster decision soon
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