Minneapolis is buzzing this week as NFL owners gather for their annual spring meeting. Over the course of three days, owners will discuss some major topics shaping the future of the league, particularly concerning the controversial quarterback-sneak play and the inclusion of flag football in the 2028 Olympics.
Among the highlighted discussions is a proposal to ban the quarterback sneak, a play that has proven highly effective for the Philadelphia Eagles. Since 2022, the Eagles have reportedly succeeded in about 90% of their short-yardage situations by utilizing a strategy that involves multiple teammates pushing quarterback Jalen Hurts forward at the snap. While not exclusive to the Eagles, the play, referred to as the “tush push,” played a crucial role in their victory during last season’s Super Bowl.
The Green Bay Packers have voiced the strongest opposition to the tush push, advocating for a rule that would prevent any offensive player lined up directly behind the snapper from receiving a push at the snap. Packers president Mark Murphy made clear that he believes the play is “bad for the game,” arguing it lacks skill and is mostly an automatic gain for short distances. The Packers’ unsuccessful matchup with the Eagles (0-2 last season) may have spurred their objection.
Earlier this offseason, the NFL owners postponed a vote on the ban to give the Eagles an opportunity to lobby against it. Strong support for keeping the play has even come from a notable figure; during the Eagles’ recent White House visit to celebrate their Super Bowl win, former President Trump expressed his favor for the tush push, calling it “exciting and different.”
In another exciting development, NFL owners have approved a resolution allowing players to participate in flag football during the 2028 Olympics in Los Angeles. The event will feature six men’s teams and six women’s teams, with each team comprising 10 players. NFL Commissioner Roger Goodell commented on the excitement among players eager to represent their countries.
Given that the Olympics are set to take place from July 14 to July 30, 2028, and will conclude before the NFL’s preseason begins, this timing could ease concerns about potential injuries. Each participating country will be allowed to select one player from NFL rosters to join the competition, a move that could bring a host of NFL talents to the Olympic stage.
As discussions continue in Minneapolis, the decisions made in the coming days could shape the future landscape of the NFL, impacting everything from game strategies to athlete involvement in international sports.
