The proposal to ban the “tush push” play did not pass at the NFL’s spring league meetings in Minneapolis. The rule change needed 75% support from team owners but fell short by two votes, as reported by The Athletic.
The Green Bay Packers initially proposed this rule change, aiming to stop the play that involves pushing or pulling a ball carrier immediately after the snap. This was seen as targeting teams like the Buffalo Bills and Philadelphia Eagles. For May’s vote, the Packers broadened their proposal to ban any form of assistance to a runner beyond individual blocking.
Falcons head coach Raheem Morris expressed his disapproval of the play earlier this year, stating, “I thought it should have been illegal three years ago.” He criticized the tactic for allowing players to push teammates in a way not seen elsewhere in football.
The “tush push,” also known as the “brotherly shove,” originated with Philadelphia’s strategy involving quarterback Jalen Hurts being pushed forward by teammates after receiving a snap. ESPN Research indicates that the Eagles and Bills have used this play extensively over recent seasons, achieving success on 87% of attempts compared to 71% for other teams.
This marks the second occasion where an attempt has been made to outlaw this tactic through NFL Competition Committee discussions. The previous effort coincided with debates about banning hip-drop tackles but did not lead to action against the tush push. Morris added, “I never really understood it, why that was legal.”
