Kansas City Chiefs head coach Andy Reid is known for his no-excuses approach after losses, and he certainly didn’t make any following his team’s defeat in Super Bowl LIX. However, during his appearance at the 2025 NFL Scouting Combine in Indianapolis, Reid took a moment to address the ongoing debate surrounding the Philadelphia Eagles’ controversial “Tush Push” play, which has been the subject of league-wide criticism.
Reid Acknowledges the Skill Behind the ‘Tush Push’
Reid, who has seen his fair share of football innovation throughout his long coaching career, offered a balanced perspective on the play. The Eagles’ “Tush Push,” a short-yardage tactic often involving quarterback Jalen Hurts, has proven highly effective for Philadelphia. Reid admitted that while the play is highly criticized, it requires a certain level of skill and physicality to execute successfully.
“I understand how it can go both ways. I think it takes certain players to be able to do that. It’s not an easy thing for the center,” Reid said. “I was close to their center, so I know that’s not an easy thing to do. My hat goes off to them for making it as consistent as they are doing it.”
Reid’s comments reflect his appreciation for the mechanics of the play and the unique combination of talent required to make it work. His respect for the Eagles’ execution of the play was evident, though he also acknowledged the ongoing concerns surrounding its safety.
The Injury Risk and the Packers’ Proposal
Reid also addressed the injury concerns that have become a significant part of the conversation. The Green Bay Packers recently submitted paperwork to the NFL in an attempt to ban the play, citing injury risks as a key reason for their proposal. Reid touched on this aspect, noting the toll the play can take on players, particularly centers like Jason Kelce.
“You have to look at the injuries, whatever the other deals are that they evaluate on it,” Reid said. “When Jason Kelce is saying it destroyed him, that itself is an alarm.”
The physical nature of the play, with the quarterback being propelled by teammates in a pileup, raises questions about its long-term impact on player health and safety.
‘Brotherly Shove’ and League Reactions
The Eagles’ “Tush Push” has been referred to as the “Brotherly Shove” by the team and has sparked attempts by other NFL squads to replicate its success. However, many teams have failed to execute it with the same efficiency, which only adds to the controversy. As the league considers proposals to regulate or ban the play, Reid’s measured response highlights the fine balance between innovation and player safety in modern football.
As the debate around the “Tush Push” continues, it remains to be seen whether the NFL will make changes to address the concerns raised by coaches, players, and teams like the Packers. But one thing is clear—Andy Reid recognizes both the effectiveness and the challenges of this powerful short-yardage play.
