INDIANAPOLIS - The Tush Push Isn't Going Anywhere for 2026
The Eagles' controversial yet effective Tush Push is set to remain a part of the NFL landscape for the upcoming season. Despite last year's heated debates and a close vote, the NFL competition committee doesn't foresee a push to ban the play this year, as confirmed by co-chairman Rich McKay.
The Green Bay Packers had previously spearheaded an effort to outlaw the play, introducing a rule change proposal that narrowly failed to pass, missing by just two votes. This decision came after the Eagles' success with the Tush Push, although their effectiveness dipped in 2025, achieving a 63.6% success rate compared to over 81% in 2024.
Eagles quarterback Jalen Hurts acknowledged the increasing difficulty of the play following a loss to the Bears, pointing out that defenses have adapted by collapsing the edges and targeting the pushers, even attempting to strip the ball.
Head coach Nick Sirianni emphasized the need for continuous adaptation, noting, “They adjust, you adjust.” The Eagles are expected to refine their approach this offseason, treating the Tush Push like any other play, focusing on fundamentals and countering defensive strategies.
Last year's proposal to ban the play, which needed 24 votes to pass, ended with a 22-10 result. Key figures like Eagles legend Jason Kelce and owner Jeffrey Lurie played crucial roles in keeping the play legal. The Lions were the only team on the Eagles' 2025 schedule to vote in their favor.
While the proposal cited player safety, NFL vice president of football operations Troy Vincent reported no injuries from the play in 2024. Discussions at the owners' meetings in Florida also touched on aesthetics and officiating challenges.
The debate over the Tush Push has been ongoing for years, but as Eagles general manager Howie Roseman stated back in 2023, “Everything we're doing is legal and it works.” The Eagles are poised to continue leveraging this play, keeping defenses on their toes in 2026.