RPO Revolution: How Mobile Quarterbacks and Run-Pass Options are Redefining NFL Offenses
The NFL is a constantly evolving game, and in recent years, the “RPO Revolution” has taken center stage. Run-Pass Options, coupled with the rise of mobile quarterbacks, are reshaping offensive strategies across the league. This dynamic combination keeps defenses guessing, forcing them to defend every inch of the field. In Super Bowl LIX, Jalen Hurts of the Philadelphia Eagles showcased the effectiveness of this approach, contributing significantly to their victory over the Kansas City Chiefs with a blend of passing and rushing prowess.
The Evolution of the RPO
The Run-Pass Option isn’t a brand-new concept, but its prevalence has surged in recent years. The basic idea behind the RPO is to give the quarterback multiple options on each play, forcing the defense to account for both the run and the pass. The play starts out like a traditional run play, with the quarterback taking the snap and faking a handoff to the running back. However, instead of simply running the ball, the quarterback has the option to throw a quick pass to a receiver who is running a short route. The decision about whether to hand off the ball or throw the pass is made based on the movements of the defense, with the quarterback reading the defenders and making a split-second decision.
As offenses have become more sophisticated, defenses have had to adapt, using smaller, quicker “hybrid” players who are better suited to stopping the pass than the run. The hybrid linebacker is a fast and aggressive player and could play inside linebacker, yet physical enough to play defensive line.
The Dual-Threat Quarterback
The RPO’s effectiveness is amplified by quarterbacks who possess the athleticism to run the ball effectively. These dual-threat quarterbacks force defenses to account for their legs, opening up passing lanes and creating mismatches.
Lamar Jackson: The Baltimore Ravens quarterback is a prime example of a mobile quarterback who thrives in an RPO-heavy system. In 2024, Jackson showcased his exceptional talent, amassing 4,172 passing yards with a 66.7% completion rate, along with a league-leading 41 touchdowns and a stellar 119.6 passer rating. He also added 915 rushing yards and four touchdowns on the ground, solidifying his status as one of the NFL’s most dynamic players. Jackson’s ability to make quick decisions and exploit defensive vulnerabilities makes him a nightmare for opposing defenses. He was selected to play in his fourth Pro Bowl.
Josh Allen: The Buffalo Bills quarterback has emerged as another elite dual-threat quarterback. Allen’s strong arm and willingness to run make him a constant threat. In the 2024 season, Allen threw for 3,731 yards and 28 touchdowns, adding 531 rushing yards and 12 touchdowns on the ground. Allen’s dual-threat ability keeps defenses on their toes, making the Bills’ offense incredibly difficult to defend. Allen was named the 2024 NFL Most Valuable Player.
Patrick Mahomes: While known for his incredible arm talent and improvisational skills, Patrick Mahomes is also a capable runner who can extend plays and pick up crucial first downs. In 2024, Mahomes passed for 3,928 yards and 26 touchdowns, adding 307 rushing yards and two touchdowns. Mahomes’s ability to make plays with both his arm and legs makes him one of the most dangerous quarterbacks in the league.
Jalen Hurts: Hurts’s performance in Super Bowl LIX cemented his place among the elite quarterbacks in the NFL. In the 2024 regular season, Hurts threw for 2,903 yards and 18 touchdowns, while also rushing for 630 yards and 14 touchdowns. Hurts’s combination of passing and rushing ability makes him a perfect fit for the Eagles’ RPO-heavy offense. Hurts completed 17 of 22 passes for 221 yards with two touchdowns and one interception and added 11 rushes for 72 yards and another score during the Eagles’ 40-22 win over the Chiefs in Super Bowl LIX.
The Impact on Offensive Strategies
The RPO revolution has had a significant impact on offensive strategies across the NFL. Teams are now designing offenses that cater to the strengths of their mobile quarterbacks, incorporating RPOs and other option plays to keep defenses guessing.
Motion and Misdirection: Offensive coordinators are increasingly using pre-snap motion and misdirection to confuse defenses and create favorable matchups. The San Francisco 49ers, led by coach Kyle Shanahan, are masters of this approach, using motion on a league-high 70.4% of their offensive plays in 2024.
Emphasis on Versatile Running Backs: The RPO has also led to a greater emphasis on versatile running backs who can excel as both runners and receivers. Players like Christian McCaffrey and Bijan Robinson are redefining what it means to be a dual-threat back, creating mismatches against linebackers and safeties in both run and pass scenarios.
Analytics-Driven Decision-Making: NFL teams are increasingly relying on analytics to make informed decisions about play-calling and game strategy. Pass Rate Over Expected (PROE) is a metric that compares a team’s actual pass and run rates with their expected rates based on factors like score differential and down-and-distance.
Defenses Adjust
As offenses have embraced the RPO, defenses have been forced to adapt. One of the most notable trends in 2024 is the increased use of two-high safety looks, with split safeties covering the deep part of the field to try and eliminate big plays and instead force offenses to matriculate the ball downfield. According to Next Gen Stats, the percentage of two-high safety looks on passing attempts has jumped from 44% in 2019 to 63% in 2024.
The Future of the RPO
The RPO revolution is likely here to stay, as teams continue to find new and innovative ways to utilize mobile quarterbacks and option plays. As defenses adjust, offenses will need to continue to evolve to stay one step ahead. The key will be finding the right balance between running and passing, and tailoring the offense to the specific strengths of the quarterback.
The success of Lamar Jackson, Josh Allen, Patrick Mahomes, and Jalen Hurts proves that the RPO, when executed effectively, can be a potent weapon. As more young, mobile quarterbacks enter the league, the RPO revolution will only continue to gain momentum, reshaping the landscape of NFL offenses for years to come.