Lane Johnson of the Eagles responds to criticism of the tush push and a potential future ban: “They’re not us.”

Lane Johnson’s response to criticism of the Philadelphia Eagles’ use of the “tush push”—a play where the quarterback is pushed from behind by his teammates to gain short-yardage or first downs—carries significant weight. His comment, “They’re not us,” serves as a blunt, unapologetic defense of a play that has been both highly effective and controversial in recent years. The phrase encapsulates a sense of pride in the Eagles’ identity, particularly when it comes to their offensive line and overall team mentality. It’s also a response to growing calls for the NFL to outlaw the play, as its success has led to an ongoing debate about fairness, safety, and innovation in the game.

A Brief History of the Tush Push

The “tush push” became synonymous with the Eagles’ offensive style, especially after their 2022 Super Bowl run. Quarterback Jalen Hurts, with the help of his powerful offensive line, used the play to great effect in short-yardage situations. The play, where Hurts is pushed from behind by his teammates—usually Johnson and other linemen—has been so successful that it has almost become automatic on third or fourth down, making it one of the most feared tactics in modern football.

Though the play may seem simple, it requires immense coordination, strength, and timing. Johnson, a 6-foot-6, 317-pound offensive tackle, is integral to making this play work, acting as one of the key enforcers in pushing the quarterback forward while maintaining his position at the line of scrimmage. The Eagles’ offensive line, often considered one of the best in the NFL, has made this play nearly unstoppable when executed properly. But with success comes scrutiny, and the “tush push” has received significant attention from critics.

The Growing Criticism and Calls for a Ban

Criticism of the “tush push” primarily revolves around its perceived simplicity and the question of whether it undermines the traditional skill sets of quarterbacks. In a game where quarterbacks are generally tasked with throwing, reading defenses, and executing complex plays, pushing them forward with help from teammates seems to some like a shortcut. Critics argue that it’s not a display of skill but rather a brute force play, where the collective effort of the line outweighs the quarterback’s individual abilities.

Moreover, safety concerns have emerged. Pushing a quarterback from behind creates additional physical contact, which some worry could lead to injuries. The play, while effective, often puts significant pressure on the quarterback’s body, especially if defenders are attempting to stop the push by hitting the quarterback or the players involved in the push. The sheer force of the play has led to questions about whether it poses an increased risk of injury, particularly to the spine or lower body.

For these reasons, there have been increasing calls from NFL teams and commentators for the “tush push” to be banned. Some have pointed out that such a tactic is not traditionally a part of football, while others suggest that it gives teams using it an unfair advantage over those who rely on more conventional methods to achieve similar outcomes.

Lane Johnson’s Response: “They’re Not Us”

Lane Johnson’s statement, “They’re not us,” can be seen as a challenge to those who want to ban the play. In it, he highlights the unique identity of the Eagles as a team that values physicality, innovation, and the ability to execute plays with precision. Johnson is not simply defending the “tush push” because it works, but because it embodies what the Eagles have built under head coach Nick Sirianni and offensive coordinator Shane Steichen—a team that thrives on toughness and versatility.

The Eagles have developed a reputation for being one of the most physical teams in the league, especially on the offensive line. Their ability to control the line of scrimmage has been a hallmark of their success, both in the run game and on plays like the “tush push.” Johnson’s words can be understood as a declaration of pride in the team’s culture and identity, rejecting the notion that teams should be forced to abandon a play simply because others can’t execute it as effectively.

At its core, the Eagles’ success with the “tush push” is a reflection of their execution, rather than the play itself. Many teams have tried to replicate it, but none have been able to match the Eagles’ efficiency in these short-yardage situations. Johnson and his fellow linemen are part of the reason why the play has worked so well. The team’s physicality and understanding of each other’s movements allow them to push with maximum force, making the play difficult to stop.

The phrase “They’re not us” also speaks to the competitiveness of the NFL. Teams that are unable to replicate or defend against the play are looking for ways to level the playing field by banning it, but Johnson and the Eagles view it as part of their edge. In a league where marginal gains can mean the difference between victory and defeat, the Eagles are simply maximizing the tools at their disposal.

The NFL’s Response: The Debate Over Banning the Tush Push

As the “tush push” has continued to generate controversy, the NFL’s Competition Committee has had to consider whether to intervene. Proposals to ban the play have surfaced in various forms, but as of now, the NFL has not taken any official steps to outlaw it. Some of the resistance to banning the play comes from coaches and players who see it as a legitimate part of the game, one that rewards teamwork and execution. To some, the idea of banning a play that is entirely legal feels like an overreaction and an attempt to stifle innovation.

Banning the “tush push” could set a precedent that stifles other creative plays and tactics that teams might develop in the future. It could also make the game less entertaining by reducing the variety of strategies that teams can employ. The Eagles have proven that with the right players and the right execution, they can make any tactic work, even one as seemingly basic as the “tush push.” To remove it would be to deny teams the opportunity to perfect their craft.

On the other hand, there are concerns about the safety of such plays, especially as more teams begin to incorporate them into their playbooks. The more players involved in a pile-up during a push play, the greater the risk of injury. If more injuries occur as a result of the “tush push,” it could lead to increased pressure on the NFL to change the rules.

Lane Johnson’s Leadership Role

Johnson’s role as the anchor of the Eagles’ offensive line cannot be overstated. As one of the most respected tackles in the league, Johnson has long been known for his leadership both on and off the field. His ability to not only execute his individual assignments but also rally his teammates has made him one of the cornerstones of the Eagles’ success in recent years. His statement about the “tush push” reflects that leadership, showing that he’s not only protecting his team’s interests but also defending their overall philosophy.

Johnson has always been outspoken about his team’s identity. Whether discussing the Eagles’ offensive line, their mentality, or the team’s resilience in the face of adversity, Johnson has made it clear that the team’s success is built on their unity and strength. The “tush push” is, in his eyes, an extension of that philosophy—a display of the Eagles’ commitment to working together and getting the job done, regardless of what anyone else thinks.

A Future Without the Tush Push?

It’s uncertain whether the “tush push” will survive in the long run. The NFL has often tinkered with its rules to ensure that the game evolves while still maintaining its integrity. However, the Eagles’ success with this play has ignited a debate that might prompt further regulation. While the NFL Competition Committee has yet to take action, the issue is likely to be revisited in future offseasons.

If the play is eventually banned, it will mark the end of an era for the Eagles, who have been able to exploit it so effectively. Johnson and his teammates will likely argue that the play is a reflection of their football intelligence and the unity of the offensive line, rather than something that should be restricted for being too effective.

Ultimately, the “tush push” is a microcosm of the evolution of football—a sport that is always balancing tradition with innovation, physicality with safety. As Lane Johnson so succinctly put it, “They’re not us.” And in the world of professional football, that might just be the ultimate defense against criticism.