BREAKING: Packers submit revised proposal to ban tush push play ahead of Spring League Meeting
Just before the Spring League Meeting, a change has been made to one of the most closely watched potential rule changes.
The NFL announced on Monday that the Green Bay Packers have submitted a revised proposal to ban the tush push play.
This week, the league is expected to discuss and possibly vote on the tush push after the issue was postponed during the Annual League Meeting on April 1.
The updated proposal expands the ban to include pushing or pulling a runner “in any direction at any time,” as well as lifting them to their feet. This approach recalls the rules in place from the league’s inception through 2005, according to Pelissero. If approved, the ban would cover the tush push and any play where a runner is pushed, pulled, or lifted — effectively banning “assisting the runner.”
Discussions at the annual meeting centered on returning to the previous wording, and the new proposal reflects this, Garafolo reported.
Green Bay Packers submit revised ‘tush push’ ban proposal – On3
The tush push, famously executed by the Super Bowl-winning Philadelphia Eagles and quarterback Jalen Hurts, is a variation of the quarterback sneak. In short-yardage scenarios, Hurts usually positions one foot forward and one back for leverage, with two to three teammates behind him helping to push him forward—hence the name “tush push” or “Brotherly Shove.”
While other teams have tried this tactic, none have matched the Eagles’ success with it.
Supporters of banning the play argue it poses safety risks, although no solid evidence backs that claim. The revised proposal still cites “player safety” and “pace of play” as reasons for the change.
This tush push amendment is one of three rule proposals updated in Monday’s league memo.
The Detroit Lions’ proposal regarding postseason seeding has also been modified to state that the division champion with the best record will receive the No. 1 seed, and the remaining six playoff spots will be awarded based strictly on overall record, regardless of division standing.
Will NFL owners approve a tush push ban this week? – The Washington Post
Additionally, a proposal on free kick procedures, aimed at encouraging more onside kick attempts, was adjusted to modify the number of players allowed on restraining lines and setup zones during kickoffs and safety kicks. It also allows teams to declare an onside kick at any point when trailing, not just in the fourth quarter.
The Spring League Meeting is scheduled for Tuesday and Wednesday
