Is the ‘Brotherly Shove’ About to End? NFL Owners Weigh Crucial Rule Change

The NFL is on the cusp of potentially altering one of the league’s most impactful and debated plays: the “Tush Push.” This dynamic offensive scheme, credited with propelling the Philadelphia Eagles to a Super Bowl LIX victory, is now squarely in the crosshairs of the NFL owners, who will vote on a proposal to ban it at the upcoming owners’ meeting on Tuesday.

At its core, the Tush Push involves the entire offensive unit pushing the quarterback a few yards forward. Initially introduced as a short-yardage solution by the Eagles, spearheaded by head coach Nick Sirianni, it has become a defining element of their game, notably contributing to their championship run. “I almost feel a little insulted because we work so hard at that play,” Sirianni told Mike Garafolo of NFL Network. “The amount of things that we’ve looked into how to coach that play, the fundamentals. There’s a thousand plays out there, but it comes down to how you teach the fundamentals and how the players go through and do the fundamentals.” He continued, “I can’t tell you how many times we practice the snap, we practice the play … the fact that it’s an automatic thing, we work really, really hard and our guys are talented at this play. It’s a little insulting to say we’re good at it so it’s automatic.”

The Controversy and the Packers’ Proposal

The push for a ban stems from a proposal presented by the Green Bay Packers, who, after a disappointing wild card loss to the Eagles in the 2025 playoffs, argued that the play is “bad for the game.” CEO and team president Mark Murphy stated, “There is no skill involved and it is almost an automatic first down on plays of a yard or less. We should go back to prohibiting the push of the runner. This would bring back the traditional QB sneak. That worked pretty well for Bart Starr and the Packers in the Ice Bowl (in 1967).” The Brewers further outlined concern about player safety, citing the intense physical contact and potential for injuries along with the play’s impact on competition.

Beyond the Tush Push: Other Rule Changes on the Docket

While the Tush Push dominates the conversation, the NFL owners meeting on Tuesday will address a host of other potentially game-changing rule adjustments. These include: proposed overtime changes for the regular season, an “assist” system for replay officials, adjustments to wild card seeding criteria, and a permanent implementation of the dynamic kickoff rules trialed last year. However, the tush push is generating the most immediate and widespread attention.

The Vote and the Threshold for Approval

To pass any rule change, a supermajority is required – 24 out of 32 votes in favor. The Eagles’ success using the Tush Push has led to scrutiny over its impact on player safety and the overall competitive landscape. Several NFL coaches have voiced mixed opinions. Buffalo Bills head coach Sean McDermott said, “Where I’m most concerned is, even though there’s not significant data out there to this point, my biggest concern is the health and safety of the players, first and foremost. It’s force, added force, and then the posture of the players, being asked to execute that type of play, that’s where my concern comes in.” Pittsburgh Steelers head coach Mike Tomlin acknowledged the play’s effectiveness, but emphasized a focus on player safety.

Indianapolis Colts’ head coach Shane Steichen and New Orleans Saints head coach Kellen Moore both indicated the importance of heeding expert advice and prioritising player safety.

A Legacy Play Under Review

The tush push initially rose to prominence a few years ago when the Eagles began deploying it in short-yardage situations, becoming a key driver behind their dominant stretch including reaching the Super Bowl two years ago and victories in the most recent title run last season. The play’s remarkable success led to Jalen Hurts, the quarterback at the heart of the play, amassing 52 rushing touchdowns over the past four seasons largely thanks to the scheme. “There is no skill involved and it is almost an automatic first down on plays of a yard or less,” Murphy added.

FAQ

Will the Tush Push be banned?

The NFL owners’ meeting on Tuesday will determine the future of the play. A 75% majority vote is needed to approve the ban.

Why is the Tush Push controversial?

Concerns have been raised about player safety and the play’s impact on competition.

How does the Tush Push work?

The play involves the quarterback being pushed by the offensive line and tight end as the team rushes forward.

As the NFL seeks to balance competitive innovation with player wellbeing, the fate of the “Brotherly Shove” hangs in the balance.

Call to Action: Share your thoughts on the potential ban in the comments below!