Tush Push Faces Uncertain Future

The infamous Tush Push seems to be losing support. Even Jason Kelce, a key proponent of the play, is expressing doubts. “I think the play is over,” Kelce stated during an appearance on Philadelphia’s 94 WIP. “There are many people in the league who want it gone. That’s fine; we’ll revert back to traditional quarterback sneaks and find ways to make them work.”

Kelce’s comments came shortly after Philadelphia’s victory over the Chiefs, a nail-biter ending in a 20-17 score. Following that game, some Eagles offensive linemen appeared to jump the snap, with no penalties called.

Reports indicate that the NFL is taking a closer look at the situation. According to the Washington Post, the league acknowledged that at least one false start should have been flagged during the Tush Push attempt. This weekend, as the Eagles face the Rams, officials are reportedly being advised to enforce stricter guidelines.

Ramon George, the NFL’s vice president of training and development, emphasized this on a training tape shared with referees. “We want clarity and precision, especially when teams are in a bundled formation,” he mentioned.

Earlier this spring, the Packers led the charge to ban the play. However, they fell short of the necessary votes for a complete ban, securing only 22 out of the required 24, with the Eagles voting to keep it.

On the “New Heights” podcast, Kelce predicted that referees will be more vigilant regarding the Tush Push. “They’ll be scrutinized closely moving forward. Everyone is watching what unfolds,” he noted. “They’re already considering neutral zone infractions at a microscopic level. You’ve got to tread carefully, or you could get flagged.”