The Packers proposed a “Tush Push” ban, and the Bears are backing it.
The Green Bay Packers’ proposal to ban the “Tush Push” continues to spark debate, and while the Chicago Bears are their longtime rivals on the field, they stand as allies on this issue. With discussions ongoing, the proposed rule change is shaping up to be a major topic heading into the new season.
According to ESPN’s Kalyn Kahler, executives from various teams weighed in on the matter during a meeting on Tuesday. Among those in favor was Bears chairman George McCaskey, who raised concerns about player safety.
“In Tuesday’s session, six sources in the room told ESPN that Bears chairman George McCaskey stood up in favor of the proposal and spoke about the risk,” Kahler reported. “Saying that a serious injury was going to happen, and when it did, they would all look back on this vote and remember it.”
While the competition committee prepares to vote, the discussion also saw Eagles owner Jeffrey Lurie defend the play.
“McCaskey took the floor before Eagles owner Jeffrey Lurie, who waited his turn to speak,” Kahler noted. “Lurie defended the play, arguing that it is uncommon, offensive trends come and go, there’s no injury data, and it’s not fair to penalize one team.”
The debate continued when Bills owner Terry Pegula voiced support for the ban, even referencing Jason Kelce’s retirement in response to Lurie’s defense.
Currently, the league remains divided, with exactly 16 teams in favor of Green Bay’s proposal. To gain more support, the Packers plan to revise the proposal to ban all pushing of the ball carrier ahead of the next league meeting on May 20-21 in Minneapolis.
Despite their fierce rivalry, the Packers and Bears find themselves aligned on this issue as they push for change in the league.
Leave a Reply