NFL Revises Overtime Structure, Introduces Expanded Replay Assist—But What About the ‘Tush Push’?

While the future of the “tush push” still hasn’t been decided, NFL owners approved expanding replay assistance and revising overtime rules, a person with knowledge of the voting told The Associated Press.

With league meetings ongoing, the NFL has taken a significant step toward refining its in-game officiating and modifying the structure of overtime play. The changes reflect a continued effort to enhance fairness and improve game flow, yet the debate over the “tush push”—a controversial yet highly effective maneuver—remains unresolved.

Overtime Gets a Facelift

In a notable shift, regular-season overtime rules now will match the playoffs, ensuring that both teams will receive a possession even if the opening drive results in a touchdown. This alteration aims to curb the advantage historically given to teams that win the coin toss. However, the proposal was amended to make overtime 10 minutes, not 15 minutes, a concession likely intended to mitigate concerns over player fatigue.

Replay Assist Gains More Authority

NFL owners also expanded the role of replay assist, granting it the ability to consult on-field officials to overrule objective calls such as facemask penalties, whether there was forcible contact to the head or neck area, horse-collar tackles, or tripping if there was “clear and obvious” evidence that a foul didn’t occur. Additionally, replay will now be able to overturn roughing the kicker or running into the kicker penalties if the video review confirms the defender made contact with the ball.

However, this newfound authority comes with a limitation—replay assist could only wipe out a foul if it was incorrectly called but it will not be used to throw a flag if a penalty wasn’t called. The decision underscores the league’s cautious approach to balancing game flow with accuracy in officiating.

The ‘Tush Push’ Stalemate

While these procedural changes were swiftly approved, the “tush push” is the hottest topic at the NFL league meetings. The tactic, which gained prominence through the Philadelphia Eagles’ mastery of the quarterback sneak, has ignited debate over both fairness and player safety.

NFL owners were set to vote on Green Bay’s proposal to ban the play, though it’s possible the proposal is tabled until May. Proponents of the ban, including the Packers and Bills, cite the increased force and player positioning as potential injury risks. Meanwhile, Eagles coach Nick Sirianni pushes back against the proposal to ban the tush push, defending its legitimacy as a strategic play.

Despite claims that no injuries have been directly linked to the “tush push”, critics argue that its mechanics expose players to excessive strain. Bills coach Sean McDermott is leading the push to get rid of it, even though Buffalo used it more than any team other than the Eagles.

Broader Rule Changes on the Table

Beyond overtime and replay modifications, additional proposals are under consideration. The competition committee has recommended sticking with the kickoff rule that was redesigned last year and tweaking it to move touchbacks to the 35-yard line in hopes of generating even more returns. Furthermore, the Detroit Lions proposed that playoff seeding should be based on record instead of automatically placing division winners in the top four spots.

What Comes Next?

With the “tush push” decision still pending and potential NFL reviewing possible changes to overtime rules, the offseason rule changes remain a focal point for owners and coaches alike. The debate underscores the constant push-pull between tradition, innovation, and player welfare.