One of the top stories in the NFL landscape over the past few seasons has been the use of the "tush push," popularized and often deployed by the Philadelphia Eagles. During NFL owners meetings last week in Minneapolis, teams voted not to ban the controversial play.
One very vocal opponent to the play has been Buffalo Bills' head coach Sean McDermott. McDermott has offered multiple explanations for his opposition of the plan, often citing player safety concerns.
However, with the NFL owners' votes allowing the play for at least another season, the Bills will have to face it - and can deploy it as they see fit. The Bills were one of the most successful teams deploying the play with Josh Allen in 2024, with Allen recording 12 rushing touchdowns and 52 first downs on the ground - a good chunk of that production coming from the tush push.
McDermott did not comment on exactly how the Bills will use the tush push, but he did say they would play "within the rules" at OTAs.
"We'll play within the rules," McDermott said. "The rules have now been set and we always do our best to play within the rules that are set up for us."
McDermott's comments suggest that despite his misgivings about the play, the Bills won't stop continuing to use it on fourth and inches and goalie situations with Allen, especially with no formal rules changed regarding the play.
The Bills have seen strong attendance during OTAs, which are not mandatory. All members of the Bills' active roster have appeared, with the exception being running back James Cook. The Bills have leaned on Ty Johnson and Ray Davis in practice with Cook's absence.
"We're staying in touch like you'd expect a player and a coach to do." McDermott said. "James will be here when he's ready to be here and we move forward."