The “tush push” isn’t going anywhere.
NFL owners on Wednesday narrowly rejected the Green Bay Packers’ proposal to ban the quarterback-push play, falling two votes shy of the 24 needed. Ten teams opposed the revised measure, which aimed to outlaw pushing or pulling a ball carrier in any direction.
Popularized by the Philadelphia Eagles, the tactic has drawn criticism over safety concerns, though no conclusive data links it to higher injury risk. Despite unanimous support from multiple league committees, the vote failed to clear the high bar for rule changes.
Eagles owner Jeffrey Lurie and ex-center Jason Kelce defended the play, which helped Philadelphia dominate short-yardage situations. The team responded to the decision with a celebratory “Push On” post. Opponents must now find a way to stop it.
Kyle leads sports coverage and hosts the Concrete Jungle podcast. Have a lead or question? Send it to [email protected].