Posted on Feb 23

NFL committee expects "tush push" rule ban proposals to remain off the table for 2025

Posted Feb 23, 2026

The NFL's "tush push" play remains a focal point of discussion, with no immediate plans for a ban despite calls from certain teams.

Why it matters: The "tush push," which involves a quarterback being pushed by teammates to gain short yardage, has become a staple in modern offensive strategies. Teams like the Philadelphia Eagles and Buffalo Bills have successfully utilized this play, prompting debates over its safety and fairness.

Conversion Rates: The effectiveness of the "tush push" is noteworthy, boasting a conversion rate of 76.8% in 2025, although this is a decline from the previous years when it averaged around 82%.
Team Usage: The Eagles led the league with 27 attempts, showcasing the play's strategic importance in their offensive system.

What’s new: Rich McKay, co-chairman of the NFL competition committee, has confirmed that there are currently no proposals to ban the "tush push" play.

The Green Bay Packers attempt to outlaw the play received minimal support, with only 16 owners backing the proposal.
A subsequent effort to prohibit all forms of player pushing also failed by just two votes in May 2025.

Yes, but: While some teams are experimenting with variations of the "tush push," the majority of owners seem content with its integration into the game.

Teams like the Pittsburgh Steelers and Seattle Seahawks have explored using tight ends for the play, reflecting its adaptability within different offensive schemes.

What to watch: As the NFL evolves, the dynamics surrounding the "tush push" will be worth monitoring, especially as teams assess its effectiveness and safety.

With an increase in attempts from 101 in 2024 to 112 in 2025, it's clear that interest in this play is growing among franchises, potentially leading to further discussions on its future.

The big picture: The ongoing conversation about the "tush push" is indicative of larger trends in the NFL regarding innovative strategies and the balance between offense and defense.

McKay emphasized the overall health of the game, stating, "The game is in a pretty good place," suggesting that while the "tush push" may elicit mixed feelings, it contributes to an evolving landscape that teams are navigating with increasing creativity.

Zoom In: The debate about the "tush push" raises questions not just about specific plays, but about the broader rules governing player interactions on the field.

As McKay pointed out, the NFL's progress in technology allows for detailed reviews of plays, including controversial catches and conversions, highlighting the challenges and opportunities facing the league as it seeks to maintain competitive integrity.

The bottom line: For now, the "tush push" remains a legal and effective tactic in the NFL, embodying the spirit of innovation that defines modern football while continuing to invite scrutiny and debate.

NFL committee expects "tush push" rule ban proposals to remain off the table for 2025

Alex Parker

Posted Feb 23, 2026

The NFL's "tush push" play remains a focal point of discussion, with no immediate plans for a ban despite calls from certain teams.

Conversion Rates: The effectiveness of the "tush push" is noteworthy, boasting a conversion rate of 76.8% in 2025, although this is a decline from the previous years when it averaged around 82%.

Team Usage: The Eagles led the league with 27 attempts, showcasing the play's strategic importance in their offensive system.

What’s new: Rich McKay, co-chairman of the NFL competition committee, has confirmed that there are currently no proposals to ban the "tush push" play.

The Green Bay Packers attempt to outlaw the play received minimal support, with only 16 owners backing the proposal.

A subsequent effort to prohibit all forms of player pushing also failed by just two votes in May 2025.

Yes, but: While some teams are experimenting with variations of the "tush push," the majority of owners seem content with its integration into the game.

Teams like the Pittsburgh Steelers and Seattle Seahawks have explored using tight ends for the play, reflecting its adaptability within different offensive schemes.

What to watch: As the NFL evolves, the dynamics surrounding the "tush push" will be worth monitoring, especially as teams assess its effectiveness and safety.

With an increase in attempts from 101 in 2024 to 112 in 2025, it's clear that interest in this play is growing among franchises, potentially leading to further discussions on its future.

The big picture: The ongoing conversation about the "tush push" is indicative of larger trends in the NFL regarding innovative strategies and the balance between offense and defense.

McKay emphasized the overall health of the game, stating, "The game is in a pretty good place," suggesting that while the "tush push" may elicit mixed feelings, it contributes to an evolving landscape that teams are navigating with increasing creativity.

Zoom In: The debate about the "tush push" raises questions not just about specific plays, but about the broader rules governing player interactions on the field.

As McKay pointed out, the NFL's progress in technology allows for detailed reviews of plays, including controversial catches and conversions, highlighting the challenges and opportunities facing the league as it seeks to maintain competitive integrity.