Philadelphia Eagles’ Signature ‘Tush Push’ Play Faces Potential Ban
Fresh off their dominant 2024 season that culminated in a Super Bowl LIX victory over the Kansas City Chiefs, the Philadelphia Eagles may soon see one of their most effective plays—the “tush push”—banned by the NFL. Eagles head coach Nick Sirianni has weighed in on the controversy as discussions about player safety continue to gain momentum.
The ‘Tush Push’ and Its Impact
Philadelphia has perfected a variation of the quarterback sneak that involves two players pushing quarterback Jalen Hurts forward behind a powerful offensive line. The play has made the Eagles nearly unstoppable in short-yardage situations, contributing significantly to their success in recent seasons.
However, concerns over player safety have fueled discussions about outlawing the tactic. Reports suggest that support for banning the play is growing, with NFL insider Dianna Russini stating on Scoop City:
“I feel like it’s getting more momentum in terms of those opposed to it than I’ve ever heard before. Usually, it’s like everyone going, ‘Nah, nah, nah,’ but it’s catching fire.”
Nick Sirianni Stands Firm
As the debate intensifies, Sirianni remains a staunch defender of the play. Given its role in the Eagles’ recent achievements, he believes it should remain a legal part of the game.
With an NFL vote on the potential ban looming, Sirianni is counting on support from some of his former assistant coaches, who now hold head coaching positions. Speaking to Mike Garafolo of NFL Network, he jokingly emphasized:
“Jonathan Gannon, Shane Steichen, and Kellen Moore better vote for it. They are in the [head coach] position right now because of that play. So all three, I better have those three votes right there and the Eagles’ vote. I at least know we have four.”
NFL Owners to Decide the Fate of the Play
The decision on whether to ban the “tush push” now rests in the hands of the NFL’s team owners. To implement a rule change, 75% of the league’s owners must vote in favor, meaning 24 out of 32 teams would need to support the ban.
With the NFL’s league meeting underway, the football world awaits a final decision on whether this controversial but highly effective play will remain a part of the game—or become a thing of the past.
Spoke to Nick Sirianni today on the tush-push vote. With a grin, he said: “We’ll see how it goes. All I will say about it is (Jonathan) Gannon, (Shane) Steichen and (Kellen) Moore better vote for it. They are in the (head coach) position right now because of that play. So all… pic.twitter.com/aZBV4KHzPq
— Mike Garafolo (@MikeGarafolo) March 30, 2025