Tush Push Tussle: Why the NFL’s Debate Over the ‘Brotherly Shove’ Isn’t Over Yet

The Philadelphia Eagles’ “Brotherly Shove,” also known as the “Tush Push,” continues to be one of the most talked-about plays in the NFL. Despite the Green Bay Packers’ renewed efforts to ban the play, NFL owners voted 22-10 against the proposal at the Spring League Meeting on May 21, 2025, leaving the play legal for at least another year. This decision, however, doesn’t signal the end of the debate. With concerns about player safety and the fundamental nature of the game still lingering, the “Tush Push Tussle” is far from over.

What is the ‘Brotherly Shove’?

For those unfamiliar, the “Brotherly Shove” is a variation of the quarterback sneak, popularized and perfected by the Philadelphia Eagles. In short-yardage situations, quarterback Jalen Hurts lines up with multiple teammates behind him, who then push him forward to gain the necessary yardage. The play’s effectiveness stems from a combination of factors, including the Eagles’ strong offensive line, Hurts’ strength, and the coordinated push from behind. As Eagles head coach Nick Sirianni said, “People can’t do it like we do it.”

The play has drawn comparisons to a rugby scrum, with some arguing that it deviates from traditional football. The Kelce brothers, Jason and Travis, have even referred to it as “Organized Mass.” While other teams have attempted the play, none have achieved the same level of success as the Eagles. In the 2024 season, Philadelphia converted 39 of 48 attempts (81.3 percent). In 2023, it converted on 88.1 percent of attempts and in 2022 it finished 36 of 39, good for 92.3 percent.

The Case for Banning the ‘Brotherly Shove’

The primary arguments against the “Brotherly Shove” revolve around player safety and the play’s perceived impact on the integrity of the game.

Player Safety: Critics argue that the play is inherently dangerous, increasing the risk of injury due to the concentrated force and potential for players to get caught in a pile. However, NFL executive vice president of football operations Troy Vincent stated that there were zero injuries suffered on the “Tush Push/Brotherly Shove” during the 2024 season. Despite this, concerns persist, with some suggesting the potential for spinal injuries or other severe consequences if a player is caught at the bottom of the pile.
Integrity of the Game: Some argue that the “Brotherly Shove” exploits a loophole in the rulebook and undermines the skill and athleticism traditionally associated with football. They contend that the play relies more on brute force than finesse, giving teams with dominant offensive lines an unfair advantage. As one critic put it, “It’s not how football was meant to be played.”

The Green Bay Packers, who lost to the Eagles in the first round of the playoffs last season, have been among the most vocal opponents of the play. Their revised proposal to ban the “Tush Push” aimed to prohibit pushing, pulling, lifting, or encircling a runner by any offensive player, regardless of position.

The Defense of the ‘Brotherly Shove’

Supporters of the “Brotherly Shove” argue that it is a legal and effective play that should not be banned simply because one team executes it exceptionally well.

Lack of Evidence of Increased Injury Risk: Despite concerns about player safety, the NFL has found no data to suggest that the “Brotherly Shove” is more dangerous than other plays. Jeffrey Lurie, Chairman and CEO of the Philadelphia Eagles, emphasized that the team would not use the play if it were not safe.
Strategic Element: Proponents argue that the “Brotherly Shove” is a strategic element of the game, rewarding teams with strong offensive lines and well-coached players. They believe that defenses should adapt to counter the play rather than seeking to eliminate it. As Lurie stated, “It’s part of what I personally and I think most of us love about football, is that it’s a chess match.”
Fair Play: Supporters point out that the NFL sent a memo to every team in 2022 confirming that the play was legal, as the rules only prohibited pulling the runner, not pushing. They argue that the play is both fair and clever, and that teams that fail to execute it successfully are simply not doing it correctly.

The Absence of Jason Kelce

One significant change for the Eagles in the 2025 season is the retirement of center Jason Kelce, who was a key component of the “Brotherly Shove.” Kelce’s leadership, strength, and technique were instrumental in the play’s success. His absence raises questions about whether the Eagles can maintain their dominance with the “Brotherly Shove” without him.

In the Eagles’ first game without Kelce, their success rate with the “Brotherly Shove” appeared to be diminished. However, it is too early to draw definitive conclusions. The team’s ability to adapt and find a suitable replacement for Kelce will be crucial in determining the play’s future effectiveness.

Looking Ahead

The debate over the “Brotherly Shove” is likely to continue, even with the play remaining legal for the 2025 season. The NFL’s Competition Committee may revisit the issue in the future, particularly if new data emerges regarding player safety or if the play’s impact on the game becomes more pronounced.

In the meantime, the Philadelphia Eagles will continue to utilize the “Brotherly Shove” as a valuable weapon in their offensive arsenal. Whether they can maintain their dominance with the play remains to be seen, but one thing is certain: the “Tush Push Tussle” will continue to captivate and divide NFL fans for the foreseeable future.