Consistent play in the pocket is key to elite-level quarterback play, and Jordan Love is spending the offseason focusing on becoming more comfortable in the pocket ahead of the 2024 season.
When asked what he focused on improving this summer, Love pointed to his balance and legs in the pocket.
“It’s always the little things,” Love said Tuesday. “The most essential thing for me was to keep my balance in the pocket. Sometimes I don’t have the strength left in my legs and I start fidgeting in my pocket a little too much. Just stay aware, make smaller movements, and understand when I need to get out of here.
Love said he also worked on his running throwing and comfort level by observing everything before and after the snap.
Maintaining balance through subtle movements can ensure a regular and rhythmic passing game. While Love made a lot of plays out of the pocket to close out the 2023 season, his game really took off when he started dominating from spotless pockets. The pocket movement also allows the setter to avoid pressure from different areas and keep his eyes on the field. Playing this position requires timing and vision in knowing where pressure is coming from and using footwork to move and maintain a stable throwing position in the pocket.
According to Pro Football Focus, Love ranked 14th in spotless pocket passers and fourth in pressure passer rating as a rookie in 2023. As of Week 10, he ranked seventh in spotless pocket passer ratings and first in pressure passer ratings .
Another jump as a pocket passer would only elevate Love’s skills and production in 2024.
“Just moving the pocket, making smaller movements,” Love said.
Here’s more from Love below:
