West Atlanta News

INDIANAPOLIS — Raheem Morris, head coach of the Atlanta Falcons, has expressed his opposition to the "Tush Push," a quarterback sneak popularized by the Philadelphia Eagles. Speaking at the 2025 NFL Combine, Morris stated, "I thought it should have been illegal three years ago." He further added, "The Tush Push play, I was never a big fan. There's just no other play in our game where you can absolutely get behind somebody and push them."

The proposal to ban this play was officially submitted by a team, with reports identifying the Green Bay Packers as the source. Brian Gutekunst, Packers general manager, confirmed their involvement on Tuesday.

The Tush Push, also known as the "Brotherly Shove," involves two teammates pushing Eagles quarterback Jalen Hurts forward after he receives the snap. This maneuver aims to gain yards for either a touchdown or a first down. According to ESPN Research, the Eagles and Buffalo Bills have run 163 such plays combined, achieving an 87% success rate compared to 71% for other teams.

Troy Vincent, NFL's executive vice president of football operations, noted concerns about player safety related to this play. He mentioned that these issues were discussed by the health and safety committee and would be shared with a broader group soon.

This marks the second time that banning the Tush Push has been brought before the NFL Competition Committee. The previous attempt occurred three years ago but did not result in any changes.

If not withdrawn by the Packers, this rule proposal will be voted on during next month's Annual League Meeting in Palm Beach, Florida. For it to pass, approval from 24 out of 32 team owners is required.

Morris reiterated his stance against allowing such plays: "I never really understood it, why that was legal," he said. "So I'm definitely going to be one of those guys voting against that."