It’s going to be close.
In order for the tush push to officially be banned moving forward, the NFL needs 24 teams to vote in favor of removing the play — but that means that the Eagles need just eight other teams, in addition to themselves, to vote against the rule change.
This seems to be the hot topic (again) at the annual meeting, and most coaches and GMs have been very vocal one way or the other when it comes to their thoughts on the matter.
Eagles head coach Nick Sirianni said that they expect to have the votes from Jonathan Gannon (Cardinals), Shane Steichen (Colts), and Kellen Moore (Saints) — all who have benefitted from the play during their time in Philly.
Colts GM Chris Ballard seemed to validate their position, saying, “We’re against banning it right now. The Eagles are good at it—give Philly and Nick Sirianni credit for being damn good at it. It is what it is. Unless there’s a health and safety reason, I don’t see us voting against it.”
So, that would be four of nine votes, and then the Lions are another team against essentially punishing the Eagles for being very good at the play.
Detroit GM Brad Holmes, explained, “The Eagles came up with it. They’re effective at it. They’re really good at it. So. if you don’t like it, stop it. That’s our stance on it. Other teams have tried it and have not been as effective.”
Which potentially gets them to five of nine.
Former Eagles legend, current Texans head coach, DeMeco Ryans was also someone who has been defending the play, so Houston could be a sixth vote. Other head coaches who have voiced similar sentiments includes Mike Vrabel (Patriots), Kevin Stefanski (Browns), Todd Bowles (Buccaneers), and Aaron Glenn (Jets).
Vrabel quipped, “There are a lot of plays that are hard to defend. I don’t think you can get rid of them every time it becomes tough to stop it. Like, Lamar Jackson shouldn’t be able to run with the football anymore? How about making that rule because it’s hard to defend.”
It’s safe to assume that not all of the people tasked with actually casting their vote will be in lock-step with the opinion of their head coach, but it at least shows a good number of teams aren’t being cry-babies about it.
One thing’s for sure, it’s going to be a close either way, and regardless of outcome, the Eagles will still be successful at QB sneaks because Jalen Hurts is the quarterback behind the best offensive line in the league.
