Quarterbacks that create off-script are all the rage in today’s NFL. The remaining four quarterbacks on Championship weekend were all capable of extending the pocket and locating receivers downfield. Of course, in order to successfully do that, a team needs to roster receivers who thrive in the scramble drill.
Seattle Seahawks veteran wide receiver Tyler Lockett has been outstanding in that area, despite receiving little nationwide acclaim for his creativity. Since 2018, Lockett places second in receptions on the scramble drill with 54, according to data collected by Next Gen Stats. He also ranks second in receiving yards (885) behind just Travis Kelce, and third in touchdowns (6).
Listening to the Bootleg Football Conf. Championship preview got me wondering how dominant Travis Kelce has been in the scramble drill.
Since 2018, Kelce has over twice as many:
– Scramble Receptions (61) as all but 3 players
– Scramble Rec. Yards (933) as all but 6 players pic.twitter.com/rTjMuiAwv7— Grant Hizer (@GPHizerStats) January 24, 2025
It’s a reminder that Lockett and Russell Wilson were once an elite pairing in the scramble drill. Lockett is hardly a receiver analysts think of when discussing scramble-drill elitists. This in-depth statistic proves Kelce is the only pass-catcher who has been more successful at helping his starting quarterback extend plays.
Lockett finished third on the Seahawks in receiving yards (600) this season. He also placed third in targets (74) and receptions (49). The long-time Seahawk unfortunately qualifies as a likely cap casualty this offseason due to a bloated contract. If John Schneider severs ties with Lockett, the team will need someone to step up in off-script situations.
