NFL's Tush Push: A Short, Powerful, and Controversial Run

The "Tush Push," an offensive formation that has dominated NFL fields, is expected to be banned following the 2025 season. This play, also known as the "Brotherly Shove," gained prominence with the Philadelphia Eagles, who developed it over a full season before its mainstream debut. Its effectiveness, coupled with a lack of clear understanding and a growing number of franchises lobbying for its removal, points to its impending demise.

The Tush Push's lineage traces back to the classic quarterback sneak, but it evolved significantly with the Eagles' unique approach. Consultant Richie Gray noted its similarity to a rugby "maul" rather than a "scrum," emphasizing its design for guiding the ball carrier into open space. This innovation, refined by coaches like Jeff Stoutland, relied on the strength of players like Jalen Hurts and the Eagles' offensive line.

Despite near-universal knowledge of its execution, the Tush Push proved incredibly difficult to stop, boasting a conversion rate above 90% in its peak years. However, debates surrounding injury rates and the play's perceived unfair advantage intensified. Following a close vote that fell just short of a ban in a prior season, the NFL is now poised to end the Tush Push's impactful, albeit brief, era.