Checkdown Percentage - NFL Advanced Stats

What Is Checkdown Percentage?

Checkdown Percentage measures the percentage of pass attempts thrown to a short, underneath receiver option, often the running back. This NFL player stat is an important NFL advanced stat for understanding passing tendencies and decision-making under pressure. A high checkdown rate can indicate conservative play, quick reads under duress, or offensive design focused on short gains. In NFL team stats, checkdown percentage can highlight how much an offense relies on safe, low-risk throws versus pushing the ball downfield, and it’s often compared against deep throw rate for balance.