Which Quarterbacks Threw Deep Least Often in 2016?
4. Matthew Stafford, Detroit Lions
Deep Rate: 14.81% | Passing NEP per Attempt: 0.61 | Success Rate: 36.36%
Keenum probably wasn't a big surprise for this list. Matthew Stafford -- given his reputation -- might be, but this is a situation where perception doesn't match reality.
Stafford's deep rate was low this year, potentially leading you to believe it was due to the departure of Calvin Johnson. However, this was actually a continuation of how the offense operated in Johnson's final year.
| Season | Deep Rate |
|---|---|
| 2015 | 13.51% |
| 2016 | 14.81% |
This wasn't about Johnson's retirement; it's just how the unit works under offensive coordinator Jim Bob Cooter.
If Stafford were to start going deep more often in 2017, Marvin Jones would be the guy to benefit. He had a 37.50% market share on the team's targets at least 16 yards downfield, and Stafford had a respectable 0.72 Passing NEP per target when going to Jones.
This isn't something we should expect given the track record, but at least there is clarity around who would stand to gain.
