The secret weapon NFL offenses are using to buy QBs an extra half-second

The NFL is witnessing an increased use of chip blocks as a strategic response to the dominance of edge rushers. This tactic involves a skill player briefly engaging a pass rusher before running a route, providing quarterbacks with additional time to throw. From 2019 to 2025, the use of chip blocks resulted in edge rushers generating pressure in 3.43 seconds on average, compared to 2.84 seconds in one-on-one situations. This extra time has allowed quarterbacks to average 9.3 air yards on pass attempts with chip blocks, compared to 7.2 yards otherwise.

The 2023 season marked a significant rise in chip block usage, with offenses employing the technique on over 20% of pass plays. This rate increased to 23.9% in 2024 and 26.8% in 2025. Notably, Minnesota led the league in chip-block rates under coach Kevin O'Connell, surpassing 40% in 2025.