Packers’ Leaders Oppose Tush Push, but Love’s Shocking Comment Surprises

The Green Bay Packers’ disdain for the Tush Push, the Philadelphia Eagles’ game-changing short-yardage play, is no secret. The team’s leadership has been outspoken about their desire to see the NFL ban the strategy, which involves teammates shoving the quarterback forward to gain critical yards. But it was quarterback Jordan Love’s unexpected comment that has stunned the league, revealing a perspective that even the Packers’ brass didn’t anticipate.

Love’s bombshell came during a routine press interaction when he was asked about the Tush Push’s impact. “Honestly, I kinda like it,” Love said with a grin. “It’s tough to stop, but it’s smart. I wouldn’t mind trying it ourselves.” His words sent ripples through the NFL, not only because they contradicted the Packers’ official stance but also because they suggested Green Bay might be rethinking their approach to the controversial play.

The Packers’ leadership, led by head coach Matt LaFleur and general manager Brian Gutekunst, has been on a mission to eliminate the Tush Push. They’ve cited player safety concerns, pointing to the physical toll of the play’s intense collisions. The team has also argued that the Tush Push’s near-perfect success rate—over 90% in short-yardage situations—creates an unfair advantage for teams with dominant offensive lines, like the Eagles. Green Bay’s frustration peaked after a 2024 loss to Philadelphia, where the Tush Push powered the Eagles to victory in crunch time.

Behind closed doors, the Packers have been working to build a coalition of teams to support a rule change banning the play. They’ve presented data to the NFL’s competition committee, highlighting injury risks and competitive imbalances. “We’re not trying to take away creativity,” a Packers source said. “But this play is pushing the boundaries of what football should be.” Their efforts have gained traction among some teams, particularly those who’ve struggled to defend the Tush Push.

Love’s comment, however, has thrown a wrench into their plans. By expressing admiration for the play, he’s not only undermined the team’s lobbying efforts but also hinted at a potential shift in strategy. Sources close to the team say Love has privately advocated for the Packers to experiment with the Tush Push, believing it could bolster their short-yardage game. His perspective has sparked tension within the organization, with some coaches open to exploring the play while others remain staunchly opposed.

The NFL is watching closely. Love’s remarks have given ammunition to teams that support the Tush Push, who argue it’s a legitimate tactic that rewards preparation and physicality. Eagles quarterback Jalen Hurts, the face of the play, responded to Love’s comment with a nod of approval. “Respect to him for saying that,” Hurts said. “It’s just football. You’ve got to adapt.”

For the Packers, Love’s candor has created a public relations challenge. The team is now forced to clarify their stance while addressing speculation that they might adopt the very play they’ve campaigned against. LaFleur has downplayed the controversy, saying, “Jordan’s entitled to his opinion, but our focus is on winning games, not debating rules.” Yet, the damage is done—Love’s words have exposed a rift within the organization and given the NFL a juicy storyline to dissect.

As the league approaches its offseason, the Tush Push debate will take center stage. The Packers’ push for a ban will face stiff opposition from teams that have embraced the play, and Love’s surprising take has only complicated matters. Whether Green Bay sticks to their guns or takes a page out of the Eagles’ playbook, one thing is certain: the Tush Push has the NFL talking, and Jordan Love’s voice is louder than anyone expected.