The NFL’s most controversial play is back in the headlines — and once again, the Philadelphia Eagles are at the center of it. This time, it’s the Green Bay Packers leading the charge, formally proposing a rule change to ban the “Tush Push” heading into the 2025 season.
The “Tush Push,” made famous by the Eagles over the past two years, is a variation of the quarterback sneak in which teammates push the QB forward from behind — usually in short-yardage situations. It’s been nearly automatic for Philadelphia, especially with Jalen Hurts under center and the team’s elite offensive line plowing forward.
Green Bay’s proposal would eliminate the ability for players to push the ball carrier, essentially restoring the sneak to its pre-2022 form.
“It’s not real football,” one anonymous NFC coach reportedly said. “It’s rugby.”
But Eagles head coach Nick Sirianni didn’t hold back when asked about the proposal.
“Just learn to stop it,” Sirianni told reporters, clearly frustrated with what he sees as targeted pushback against the Eagles’ execution — not the play itself.
The proposal has ignited debate across the league. Supporters argue the play is unsafe, unfair, and gimmicky, giving an outsized advantage to teams with stronger offensive lines. Opponents — especially in Philadelphia — say the move is purely driven by envy.
“If it’s legal and we’re better at it than you, that’s your problem,” one Eagles lineman said anonymously.
Fan reactions mirror the league’s divide.
-
Eagles Nation: “They hate us ‘cause they ain’t us.”
-
Others: “It’s not skill, it’s brute force abuse.”
The NFL Competition Committee is expected to review the proposal before training camp, though past efforts to outlaw the play have failed.
Still, the message is clear: The Eagles have mastered a tool so effective, it’s forcing the league to consider rewriting the rules.
Until then, Sirianni and the Birds have no plans to stop.
“We’re not breaking rules,” Nick added. “We’re just breaking defenses.”
