The NFL held a vote in April regarding the controversial Tush Push play, with a decision against banning it. This ruling has not diminished the debate surrounding the play, especially as the Philadelphia Eagles prepare to face the Green Bay Packers on Monday. The Packers were behind the proposal to prohibit the play, which they consider detrimental to the game.
Packers head coach Matt LaFleur expressed his disapproval of the Tush Push earlier this year, stating that he does not view it as a genuine football play. As the teams approach their matchup, LaFleur is concentrating on preventing the Eagles from entering short-yardage situations where the play is most effective. “I think the best way to stop it is to not allow it to happen,” LaFleur said during a media session. “You can”t allow them in those short-yardage situations, because you know exactly what they”re going to do, and they”ve been pretty successful at it obviously.” When asked if his stance on the play had changed, he declined to elaborate, simply stating, “It is what it is.”
The push to ban the Tush Push originated from former Packers president Mark Murphy, who expressed his dislike for the play following the team”s playoff loss to the Eagles. In a Q&A column, Murphy criticized the play for lacking skill and being nearly guaranteed to secure a first down on short-yardage attempts. He advocated for reinstating a previous rule that prevented offensive players from pushing or aiding the quarterback during the play. Murphy reminisced about the traditional quarterback sneak, which had been effective for legends like Bart Starr during the historic Ice Bowl.
The Packers formally proposed a rule change aimed at banning the Tush Push, which they presented at league meetings. Initially, the proposal sought to amend Rule 12, Section 1 to prohibit players from pushing or throwing their bodies against teammates to gain yardage. This proposal was eventually tabled, and an updated version failed to gather the necessary support, falling short of the two-thirds majority required to pass.
Interestingly, center Jason Kelce played a crucial role in defending the play. His comments on the podcast “New Heights” were misinterpreted, leading to speculation about his retirement being linked to the Tush Push. Kelce clarified his position, stating he would gladly return to the field if the only requirement was executing the play. His presence at the May meetings to address misconceptions about the play was seen as influential in swaying opinions among team owners.
Since the league”s decision, the Eagles have continued to execute the Tush Push with remarkable success this season, even attracting a sponsor aligned with the play”s name. However, it remains a contentious topic, particularly with accusations of officiating errors. During a Week 2 matchup against the Kansas City Chiefs, the Eagles faced scrutiny for what appeared to be false starts during their execution of the play.
Despite the criticism, several opposing coaches have praised the Eagles” approach, and the ongoing discussion about the play keeps it in the spotlight. Looking ahead, another proposal to revisit the Tush Push ban is expected at league meetings in 2026. Until then, the Eagles seem determined to utilize the play effectively. “I think it”s an exciting play,” said Eagles head coach Nick Sirianni. “There”s been a lot of discussion about it, and I believe that brings more attention to football.”
As the Eagles prepare for their showdown with the Packers, players like Jordan Mailata reflect on the potential future of the Tush Push, suggesting it has had a “life well lived” regardless of the upcoming vote.
