Amid the heated debate surrounding the Philadelphia Eagles’ infamous “Tush Push” play, Denver Broncos legend Donald Ray Crockett has stepped in with a bold stance—teams need to stop whining and start adjusting. While critics across the league are demanding the NFL ban the play, Crockett believes the outrage is nothing more than frustration from teams that can’t figure out how to stop it.

“In my opinion, that’s just smart football,” Crockett said when asked about the controversy. “If a team finds a play that works within the rules, why shouldn’t they use it? This league is about strategy, intelligence, and execution. If you’re mad about it, maybe you should spend more time in the film room instead of complaining.”

His comments echo the sentiment shared by old-school players who believe innovation has always been a part of the game. “Every era has its dominant play or scheme. The West Coast offense, the read-option, the no-huddle—defenses didn’t cry about those, they adjusted. So why is this any different?” Crockett argued.

As teams push for the NFL to outlaw the play, Crockett remains unimpressed by their reasoning. “They’re acting like the Eagles are out here cheating. No, they’re just outsmarting everybody. If your defense can’t handle it, that’s on you,” he said.

While many coaches and executives continue to call for change, Crockett’s perspective reminds everyone of a fundamental truth about football: the game evolves, and the best teams evolve with it. “If the league bans it, fine, move on. But right now, it’s legal. So either stop it, or stop crying about it,” he added.