Passing pocket

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The passing pocket is a term used in American football to describe the area in the backfield that is created on a passing play where the offensive line forms a wall of protection around the quarterback to protect him. This allows him adequate time to find an open receiver and to pass the ball.

The offensive line will drop back slightly, creating a protected area for the quarterback to find an open receiver and get rid of the ball. If he is unable to find an open receiver he will attempt to gain yards by running the ball himself.

The term is typically referred to as "The quarterback drops back into the pocket."