Philadelphia Eagles players are dismissing concerns over a potential ban on the "tush push" play, a quarterback sneak that has become a key part of their offense. NFL executives are set to vote on the proposal during the Spring League Meeting on Wednesday (May 21). Eagles wide receiver A.J. Brown downplayed the significance of the play, saying, "It's only one yard," while offensive lineman Jordan Mailata expressed indifference, stating, "I guess we'll just do it with no push" if the play is banned.
The "tush push" involves lining up players behind the quarterback to push him forward in short-yardage situations. It has been highly successful for the Eagles, who, along with the Buffalo Bills, have run the play more frequently and successfully than other teams. According to ESPN, the Eagles and Bills achieved a touchdown or first down on 87% of their attempts, compared to 71% success for the rest of the league.
Eagles coach Nick Sirianni and owner Jeffrey Lurie have defended the play, with Lurie calling it a "precision play" that showcases the team's strong offensive line and quarterback Jalen Hurts. The Green Bay Packers initially proposed the ban, which was tabled at the April league meeting but is now up for reconsideration. Despite the debate, the Eagles are focused on their game strategy, with Mailata emphasizing that worrying about the vote "ain't going to win us a championship."