Which NFL QB Holds the Ball the Longest?
In a year where NFL quarterbacks are throwing the ball less, we take a look at which QBs are holding on to it the longest.
Tom Brady
Tom Brady has been one of the best quarterbacks in NFL history. He is a 5-time Super Bowl champion with the New England Patriots and he has been named the NFL MVP 3 times. Brady is known for his quick decision making and his ability to get the ball out of his hands quickly.
According to NFL Next Gen Stats, Brady held the ball on average for 2.61 seconds before throwing it during the 2018 season. This was the shortest time of any quarterback in the NFL.
Drew Brees
Drew Brees of the New Orleans Saints holds the ball an average of 2.36 seconds before throwing it, the longest time of any NFL quarterback. Tom Brady of the New England Patriots is second at 2.28 seconds, followed by Aaron Rodgers of the Green Bay Packers at 2.27 seconds.
Aaron Rodgers
Rodgers, who is known for his quick release, actually holds the ball longer than any other NFL quarterback, on average. According to data from Pro Football Focus, Rodgers has an average time of 2.61 seconds before throwing the ball. That’s just barely ahead of Tom Brady, who has an average time of 2.58 seconds.
Russell Wilson
The Seahawks’ Russell Wilson holds the ball an average of 2.81 seconds before passing, the longest in the NFL, according to Pro Football Focus. The Jets’ Sam Darnold is next at 2.69 seconds.
