These 3 trends are shaping the future of the NFL
The NFL has never been more popular than it is right now. The league is more quarterback-driven than it has been in decades, and while it still celebrates tradition, the modern-day NFL has changed. From the way games are called to the way fans take it all in, you must adapt to the new age. Here are three trends that are shaping the future of the NFL as we know it.
Quarterback Mobility Is No Longer Optional
The art of the pocket passer hasn’t disappeared, but it has become more of a prerequisite than a luxury these days. Defenses are bigger, faster, and more athletic than before, and that trend will continue. Pockets continue to collapse in record time. Quarterbacks these days must be able to escape the pocket and extend the play. This doesn’t mean pocket passers cannot thrive in the NFL, but offensive lines must remain consistent and develop chemistry to lock down defenders, which has been extremely tough due to the onslaught of injuries. Teams need that flexibility of a mobile QB.
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Defensive Versatility Has Replaced Traditional Positions
Defensive schemes have evolved, and blitz packages and ways to get to the opposing QB have been completely revolutionized. The days of the classic strong safeties and weakside linebackers who can move aren’t emphasized as much as they used to be. Now, defenders rely more on the versatility of hybrid defenders who can do it all and play multiple alignments. No longer are defenses trying only to stop everything; they are also trying to confuse and disguise, as well as force a ton of mistakes.
Are Running Backs Being Devalued? Or Ignored? Not Quite
Running backs will always be important, especially if you are a weapon catching the ball out of the backfield. But the role may change dramatically. Teams are reluctant to invest heavily in the position. Some teams rotate them as if they were a dime a dozen. To some extent, they are, but very few workhorse backs exist in today’s NFL. In today’s NFL, injuries often force teams to tighten their wallets, as running backs’ ACLs seem to be made of Jell-O. That’s not a knock on the position; it’s just a testament to the aforementioned injuries that occur with players being bigger and faster in a violent game.
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With that said, the running game hasn’t disappeared and is still valuable in short-yardage situations. Especially if you have Bijan Robinson or Jonathan Taylor in your backfield, but it seems more complementary than a focal point.
This article originally appeared on Touchdown Wire: These 3 trends are shaping the future of the NFL