What it is

A checkdown is a short, low-risk pass to a running back or a tight end, thrown when the deeper receivers are covered or the quarterback is under pressure. It is the quarterback’s safety valve: it gains a few yards instead of risking a sack or an interception.

In a game

The back usually runs a hook or a flat route close to the line, so he is the last read in the quarterback’s progression. Defenses that drop many players deep often give up checkdowns on purpose, and a back who can turn a short catch into a longer gain makes the play more dangerous.

More detail

Checkdowns are most common on third and long, when a short gain still ends the drive with a punt, and some quarterbacks are criticized for taking them too early. Running backs with good hands and vision are valued because they turn a safe throw into extra yards after the catch. Teams also use a designated third-down back, who is both a receiver and a blocker, to make this option reliable.

Animated diagram

1. The quarterback drops back and looks at his deep receivers first.
2. The safeties and cornerbacks stay deep, so every downfield receiver is covered.
3. He turns to the running back, who has slipped out into the flat, and dumps the ball to him for a safe, short gain.