In the Nick Sirianni era, few plays have stirred as much debate as the Philadelphia Eagles' signature move: the Tush Push.
For some, it’s a brilliant strategy for a run-heavy team to maximize their strength in short-yardage scenarios. By leveraging alignment rules, the Eagles have significantly boosted their conversion rates in critical moments.
This play has become a blueprint, adopted by teams across the NFL, college, and even high school levels. When executed perfectly, it’s like having a cheat code in your playbook.
However, not everyone is a fan. Critics argue that it’s an eyesore and raises concerns about player safety.
Sean Payton says if the NFL ever eliminated the “tush push” it won’t be because of health and safety. It’ll be because “we don’t like it.” He said: “Last year, we spent two hours on health and safety on the (tush push) and then added 1,000 kickoffs. … Sometimes your BS meter… pic.twitter.com/7F2tzP0hAR
— Rob Maaddi (@RobMaaddi) February 24, 2026
Despite these criticisms, could the NFL eventually outlaw the Tush Push, even if the Eagles’ success with it waned in 2025? It’s possible, but safety won’t be the reason, as Sean Payton points out.
“Which play do you think poses a greater health risk? A thousand more kick returns,” Payton remarked.
“If we ever decide to eliminate it, it won’t be due to health concerns. It’ll be because we simply don’t like it, and that’s fine.”
In the past two years, how many Eagles players have suffered serious injuries from the Tush Push? None.
Jalen Hurts has endured the physical demands without missing a beat. If the NFL decides to ban the play, it will likely be due to Philadelphia’s dominance with it, not because of any safety issues.