Green Bay Packers Push to Ban Controversial ‘Tush Push’ Play, NFL to Review Proposal
The Green Bay Packers have submitted a formal proposal to the NFL’s competition committee seeking to ban the “tush push,” a contentious short-yardage play popularized by the Philadelphia Eagles, according to a report by ESPN’s Dianna Russini. The proposal, which could spark significant debate among teams and fans, will be reviewed during the league’s annual offseason rule-change discussions.
What Is the ‘Tush Push’?
The tush push, often referred to as the “brotherly shove” in Philadelphia, involves the quarterback lining up in a sneak formation behind the center while teammates push them forward from behind to gain critical yardage. The Eagles have executed this play with remarkable success, particularly with quarterback Jalen Hurts, converting over 90% of attempts in key situations during the 2022 and 2023 seasons. Critics argue the play’s effectiveness borders on unstoppable, while supporters praise it as a legal and strategic innovation.
Packers’ Rationale for the Ban
Green Bay’s proposal cites player safety and competitive fairness as primary concerns. While no direct injury data linked to the tush push has been publicly highlighted, the Packers and other detractors suggest the play’s brute-force mechanics increase risks of lower-body injuries, particularly to linemen and quarterbacks in the scrum. Additionally, some teams argue that the play’s reliance on specific personnel—such as Hurts’ unique combination of strength and leverage—creates an uneven competitive landscape, as few franchises can replicate it effectively.
NFL’s Stance and Historical Context
The competition committee previously debated the tush push in 2023 but opted against a ban, concluding there was insufficient evidence to justify removing a “legitimate football tactic.” However, the Packers’ renewed push, coupled with growing divisiveness among owners and coaches, could reignite discussions. NFL Executive Vice President Jeff Miller acknowledged last year that the league would monitor the play’s impact, leaving the door open for future reevaluation.
Reactions Across the League
Unsurprisingly, the Eagles have vigorously defended the play. Head coach Nick Sirianni called it a “well-executed, fundamental part of our offense,” while Hurts emphasized the teamwork required to make it successful. “It’s not just me—it’s the entire line and the guys behind me sacrificing to move the pile,” he told reporters in 2023.
Other teams remain divided. Coaches like the New York Giants’ Brian Daboll have admitted to practicing the tush push but with mixed results, underscoring the challenge of replicating Philadelphia’s precision. Meanwhile, proponents of the ban, including some player safety advocates, argue the NFL should proactively eliminate plays that incentivize dangerous pile-ups.
What’s Next?
The competition committee, comprising owners, coaches, and executives, will review the proposal ahead of the NFL’s Annual League Meeting in March. Any rule change would require approval from at least 24 of the league’s 32 owners. If banned, the tush push would join other outlawed techniques, such as the “horse-collar tackle,” deemed too risky for the modern game.
Conclusion
As the NFL balances innovation with safety, the tush push debate encapsulates a larger tension between tradition and evolution. While the Eagles’ mastery of the play has redefined short-yardage strategy, the Packers’ push for a ban underscores lingering concerns about its long-term implications. Whether the committee sides with tradition or progress—or seeks a middle ground—will shape not only the future of the tush push but also the league’s approach to balancing safety with competitive ingenuity.