NFL Owners Vote Against Tush Push Ban, Approve Onside Kick Rule Change

The NFL owners voted against banning the controversial "tush push" play popularized by the Philadelphia Eagles, with the proposal falling two votes short of the required 24, resulting in the play remaining legal for the upcoming season. The proposal to ban the play was submitted by the Green Bay Packers at the league's spring meeting, but sources reveal the league office encouraged the Packers to make the proposal, despite the Packers having little interest in the ban. Eagles owner Jeffrey Lurie and retired center Jason Kelce actively lobbied to keep the play, contributing to the 10 teams, including the Tennessee Titans, Ravens, Patriots, Jets, and Lions, voting against the ban. Additionally, owners approved a rule change allowing teams trailing in a game to attempt onside kicks at any point, rather than only in the fourth quarter, with a slight adjustment in the kicking line to improve recovery chances. Another proposed rule to reseed playoffs after the Wild Card round was withdrawn and not voted on. The vote outcome was celebrated by the Eagles on social media, highlighting the play's significance and ongoing presence in the NFL.