Quarterbacks who do (and don’t) target RBs [Video]

Discerning exactly what role a quarterback plays in check downs to running backs is the stuff of unending social media exchanges between football fans and fantasy managers who very much want to know if running back targets is, in fact, a quarterback stat.

I’m not going to pretend I have the answers. I don’t. I do, however, have a bunch of data that might prove helpful in identifying which running backs might see consistent pass-game involvement in 2024, and which ones won’t.

The NFL is increasingly becoming a check-down league, as I outlined in February, and in such a passing environment, capable pass-catching running backs could figure prominently. Below is analysis of QB tendencies and what it might mean for their backfield mates in 2024.

QBs Who Frequently Target RBs

Derek Carr (NO)

You knew this was coming. Carr is the unquestioned reigning king of check downs, and the data suggests it’s (usually) his call, not a result of play design.

The Saints last season were fourth …