The NFL is cyclical and every few years we see schematic and philosophical patterns that impact game plans, roster construction, play calling, etc. One thing you may have noticed is that there’s been a major change in the passing game as of late.
ESPN did a deep dive in the declining rate of long-range passing, which for the purpose of this column is defined as 15+ air yards past the line of scrimmage. This doesn’t mean the deep passes are less efficient, but they are less frequent.
There were 3,416 attempts at least 15 yards downfield during the 2022 regular season, the fewest in any season since 2006.