Detroit Lions GM Brad Holmes isn’t mincing words when it comes to the proposed ban on the Philadelphia Eagles’ infamous “tush push” play. With the Green Bay Packers leading the charge to outlaw the quarterback-sneak strategy, Holmes is pushing back, saying teams should figure out how to stop it instead of banning it.
“The Eagles came up with it. They’re effective at it. They’re really good at it. So, if you don’t like it, stop it. That’s our stance on it,” Holmes said, via Ari Meirov of The 33rd Team.
The “tush push,” which involves the quarterback getting a push from teammates to gain short-yardage, has been a dominant weapon for Philadelphia. While many teams have tried to replicate it, none have been nearly as effective. The Packers’ proposal aims to eliminate the play despite it being completely legal under current NFL rules.
Holmes’ response aligns with the gritty, tough-minded culture the Lions have built under his leadership. Detroit is coming off an impressive 15-2 season, winning the NFC North and cementing themselves as one of the top teams in the league. However, their playoff run was cut short in the Divisional Round, falling 45-31 to the Washington Commanders.
As the Lions prepare for another deep playoff push in 2025, Holmes and his staff have some major decisions to make, including whether to pick up wide receiver Jameson Williams’ fifth-year option. Williams, a former first-round pick, broke out last season with 58 catches for 1,001 yards and seven touchdowns, proving he can be a key piece of the offense moving forward.
With Holmes’ strong stance on competition and his continued belief in Detroit’s roster, the Lions remain focused on building a team that doesn’t need rule changes to win—they just need to keep getting better.
Brad Holmes Gets Real: “I Don’t Like” NFL’s Tush Push Decision
