Empty Backfield, Full Speed Ahead: Examining the Rise of the QB Run Game in 2025

The roar of the crowd, the clash of helmets, and the electrifying scramble of a quarterback evading pressure – the NFL in 2025 is a spectacle of athleticism and strategic innovation. One of the most compelling trends reshaping the modern game is the ascent of the quarterback run, particularly from empty backfield formations. In Week 8 of the 2024 season, Patrick Mahomes became the quickest quarterback to reach 30,000 passing yards, besting Matthew Stafford (109) and reaching the mark in just 103 games. However, beyond the traditional passing prowess, the ability of quarterbacks to make plays with their legs is now a critical component of offensive success.

The Evolution of the Empty Backfield

The empty backfield formation, once a niche strategy primarily used in obvious passing situations, has evolved into a versatile weapon. Traditionally, the empty backfield, also known as “five-wide,” involves positioning all running backs near the line of scrimmage as extra receivers or tight ends. This formation is designed to spread the defense, creating opportunities for short inside routes or screens. However, the modern iteration incorporates designed quarterback runs, turning the passer into a legitimate rushing threat.

Quarterbacks Leading the Charge

Several quarterbacks have spearheaded this shift, redefining the position with their dual-threat capabilities.

Lamar Jackson (Baltimore Ravens): Jackson’s unparalleled agility and speed make him the poster child for the modern running quarterback. In the 2024 season, Jackson achieved a historic feat, leading the NFL in both yards per pass (8.8) and yards per rush (6.6). He amassed 4,172 passing yards with 41 touchdowns and just 4 interceptions, complemented by 915 rushing yards and 4 rushing touchdowns. His ability to seamlessly transition from passer to runner keeps defenses constantly off-balance.
Josh Allen (Buffalo Bills): Allen’s combination of size, arm strength, and surprising elusiveness makes him a formidable rushing threat. In 2024, Allen continued to rewrite the NFL history books, showcasing his MVP-caliber talent. He consistently surpassed expectations, leading the Bills to the AFC East title and solidifying his place among the league’s elite.
Jalen Hurts (Philadelphia Eagles): Hurts’s powerful running style and knack for finding the end zone have made him a key component of the Eagles’ offense. In 2024, Hurts rushed for 630 yards and an impressive 14 touchdowns, leading all quarterbacks in rushing touchdowns. Hurts helped lead Oklahoma to a Big 12 Championship and a spot in the College Football Playoff.
Patrick Mahomes (Kansas City Chiefs): While known for his exceptional passing skills, Mahomes is also a capable runner who can extend plays and pick up crucial yards. In 2024, Mahomes rushed for 307 yards and 2 touchdowns, adding another dimension to the Chiefs’ dynamic offense.

Strategic Advantages of the QB Run Game

The rise of the quarterback run game from empty backfield formations offers several strategic advantages:

Defensive Disruption: Defenses are forced to account for the quarterback as a potential runner, which can create hesitation and open up passing lanes.
Increased Read Options: The quarterback run adds another layer to read-option plays, making it more difficult for defenders to anticipate the offense’s intentions.
Exploiting Mismatches: Empty formations often create favorable matchups for the quarterback, particularly against slower linebackers or defensive linemen.
Enhanced Red Zone Efficiency: The threat of a quarterback run can be particularly effective in the red zone, where space is limited and defenses are more compact.

Coaching Philosophies and Play Design

Offensive coordinators are increasingly incorporating quarterback runs into their playbooks, designing specific schemes to maximize their effectiveness. These schemes often involve:

Designed QB Draws: Quarterbacks can exploit the defensive alignment for significant gains when the defense is spread out.
RPO (Run-Pass Option) Plays: RPOs allow quarterbacks to make real-time decisions based on defensive movement, enhancing offensive efficiency and explosiveness.
Zone Read Variations: These plays force defenders to commit to either the running back or the quarterback, creating opportunities for the quarterback to make the right read and exploit the defense.

Defensive Adaptations

As the quarterback run game gains prominence, defensive coordinators are adapting their strategies to counter this trend. Key defensive adjustments include:

Spying the Quarterback: Assigning a linebacker or safety to shadow the quarterback and react to potential runs.
Disciplined Pass Rush: Maintaining lane integrity and avoiding over-pursuit to prevent the quarterback from escaping the pocket.
Coverage Adjustments: Implementing coverage schemes that account for the quarterback as a potential runner, such as assigning a defender to “plaster” the quarterback on passing downs.

The Future of the QB Run Game

The quarterback run game is poised to remain a significant trend in the NFL. As quarterbacks continue to evolve as athletes and strategists, their ability to run will become an even more integral part of offensive game plans. The rise of mobile quarterbacks has also led to increased investment in interior linemen, as teams recognize that controlling the line of scrimmage is crucial for both passing and running success. The Super Bowl LIX winning Philadelphia Eagles are a prime example of this!

Conclusion

The NFL in 2025 is witnessing a revolution in offensive strategy, with the quarterback run game taking center stage. Quarterbacks like Lamar Jackson, Josh Allen, Jalen Hurts, and Patrick Mahomes are redefining the position, showcasing their exceptional athleticism and strategic acumen. As teams continue to innovate and defenses adapt, the quarterback run game promises to be a captivating element of the NFL landscape for years to come.