The debate surrounding the Tush Push play in the NFL continues, but the play itself will remain part of the game. On Wednesday, a vote among NFL owners did not reach the necessary majority to ban the play popularized by the Super Bowl champion Eagles. The vote concluded with 22 in favor of a ban and 10 against, falling short of the required 24 votes for a rule change. It is reported that the Cardinals were among those voting for the ban.
In an effort to preserve the play, retired center Jason Kelce was brought in by the Eagles to explain its mechanics to team owners. Following the vote, the Eagles released a 26-minute video on YouTube showcasing all their Tush Push plays.
The discussion about banning this specific play began during March’s owners meetings and was revisited this week with a revised proposal from the Packers. Initially focused on preventing players who received snaps from being pushed, it evolved into a proposal to outlaw all pushes and pulls of ball carriers.
Historically, such actions were prohibited until 2005 when enforcement became too subjective. If passed, this rule would have impacted plays like Trey McBride’s touchdown against the Ravens in 2023, which involved pushing and pulling him into the end zone.
Despite these discussions, no changes were made to current rules. The Brotherly Shove remains part of NFL gameplay.
Caitlyn Epes/Arizona Cardinals
Cardinals tight end Trey McBride is pushed (and pulled) into the end zone for a 2023 touchdown against the Ravens.
