The Rise of Dual-Threat QBs: How Versatile Quarterbacks are Redefining NFL Offenses

The NFL has witnessed a seismic shift in offensive strategies, largely fueled by the emergence of dual-threat quarterbacks. These athletes, equally adept at throwing and running, are no longer outliers but rather the architects of modern NFL offenses. This evolution demands that defenses adapt, leading to a chess match of innovation and counter-strategy that captivates fans and analysts alike. The 2024-2025 season further cemented this trend, showcasing the impact of quarterbacks who can extend plays with their legs and challenge defenses in multiple dimensions.

The Quarterback Evolution: From Pocket Passer to Dynamic Threat

Historically, the quarterback’s role was primarily confined to the pocket, delivering passes with precision and avoiding turnovers. However, the rise of athletic quarterbacks like Steve Young, and Randall Cunningham demonstrated the potential of mobility at the position. Today, players like Josh Allen, Lamar Jackson, and Patrick Mahomes have taken this versatility to new heights, forcing defensive coordinators to account for both their arm talent and rushing ability.

Key Dual-Threat Quarterbacks of the 2024-2025 Season

Several quarterbacks showcased their dual-threat prowess during the 2024-2025 season, significantly impacting their teams’ success.

Lamar Jackson (Baltimore Ravens): Jackson’s exceptional mobility and arm talent were on full display as he led the Ravens to a dominant season. He ended the 2024 season with 4,172 passing yards, 41 passing touchdowns, and only 4 interceptions. He also added 915 rushing yards and 4 rushing touchdowns. Jackson’s ability to extend plays and make defenders miss in the open field makes him a constant threat.
Josh Allen (Buffalo Bills): Allen’s combination of size, arm strength, and rushing ability makes him a nightmare for defenses. In 2024, Allen rushed for 531 yards and was a constant threat in the red zone. His willingness to put his body on the line and his knack for converting short-yardage situations with his legs make him an invaluable asset to the Bills’ offense.
Jalen Hurts (Philadelphia Eagles): Hurts’s development as a passer, combined with his powerful running style, has made him a focal point of the Eagles’ offense. In 2024, Hurts had 45 rushing yards per rushing touchdown. His ability to execute run-pass options (RPOs) effectively keeps defenses guessing and opens up opportunities for both the running and passing game.
Patrick Mahomes (Kansas City Chiefs): While known for his exceptional passing skills, Mahomes also possesses the mobility to extend plays and pick up crucial first downs with his legs. In the 2024 season, Mahomes had 307 rushing yards. His ability to escape pressure and make throws on the run adds another layer to the Chiefs’ already potent offense.
Jayden Daniels (Washington Commanders): As a rookie in 2024, Daniels injected new life into the Commanders’ offense with his dual-threat capabilities. His mobility and accurate passing made him an exciting player to watch and a promising prospect for the future.

Offensive Scheme Adaptations

The rise of dual-threat quarterbacks has necessitated significant changes in offensive play-calling and scheme design. Teams are increasingly incorporating run-pass options (RPOs) and designed quarterback runs into their playbooks to capitalize on their quarterback’s versatility. These schemes force defenses to account for multiple threats simultaneously, creating mismatches and opening up passing lanes.

Defensive Challenges and Counter-Strategies

Defending against dual-threat quarterbacks presents a unique set of challenges for defensive coordinators. Traditional blitz packages can be risky, as mobile quarterbacks can exploit the vacated spaces. Zone coverage can also be vulnerable, as quarterbacks can scramble and extend plays while defenders are focused on covering receivers.

Defensive strategies to contain dual-threat quarterbacks include:

Spying: Assigning a defender to shadow the quarterback and react to his movements.
Disciplined Pass Rush: Maintaining lane integrity and avoiding over-pursuit to prevent the quarterback from escaping the pocket.
Hybrid Defensive Backs: Utilizing defensive backs with the versatility to cover receivers and provide run support.
Two-High Safety Looks: Employing two deep safeties to provide additional coverage and prevent deep throws.

The increased use of two-high safety schemes has become more prevalent in recent years. In 2019, two-high defenses were used 44% of the time, rising to 63% in 2024. This adjustment forces quarterbacks to make shorter throws, emphasizing efficiency over deep shots.

The Impact on NFL Draft and Player Development

The emphasis on dual-threat quarterbacks has also impacted the NFL Draft and player development. Scouts are now prioritizing quarterbacks with both passing and running abilities, leading to a shift in how quarterbacks are evaluated and developed. College programs are also adapting their offenses to showcase their quarterbacks’ versatility, preparing them for the demands of the modern NFL.

Rule Changes and the Dual-Threat QB

The NFL consistently evaluates and modifies its rules, and the rise of the dual-threat quarterback has indirectly influenced some of these changes. For example, penalties are assessed to hip drop tackles, which can help protect running quarterbacks. The league also now allows officials to review whether a passer was down or out of bounds before throwing a pass.

The Future of the Dual-Threat Quarterback

The dual-threat quarterback is here to stay, and their impact on the NFL will only continue to grow. As offensive schemes evolve and defensive strategies adapt, these versatile athletes will remain at the forefront of the game. The 2025 NFL Draft class already has some potential dual-threat stars, including Alabama’s Jalen Milroe. Milroe has a million-dollar arm, and his legs might be worth 10 times as much, especially as the NFL increasingly shifts to more dual-threat quarterbacks. Texas Longhorns QB Arch Manning is another player to watch.

The rise of dual-threat quarterbacks has redefined NFL offenses, creating a more dynamic and exciting game for players and fans alike.