Introducing QB ISO Percentage: Measuring how often quarterbacks operate without help from the offensive scheme

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Estimated reading time: 3 minutes

It’s never too early to start preparing for next season, and for PFF, that means looking at ways to improve PFF Premium Stats. And one way we’re looking to enhance the experience is by introducing more data into the mix.

This week, we're introducing a metric called “QB ISO Percentage,” which looks at which quarterbacks are assisted the most by the offense they play in. 

What is QB ISO Percentage?

QB ISO Percentage measures how often a quarterback operates without the benefits of offensive play designs intended to make their job easier. “Help” is defined as:

• Use of motion (standard, ghost, or jet)
• Play action
• Quick-game passing concepts
• RPOs
• Screens

This metric also includes plays nullified by penalties.

While these elements can simplify a quarterback’s task, receiving such assistance doesn’t negatively reflect on a quarterback’s skill. Instead, QB ISO Percentage adds valuable context to how much support a quarterback receives within their offensive system.

Here is how the league's quarterbacks have fared so far, with 2023 data included for some historical context.

QB ISO PERCENTAGE THROUGH FOUR WEEKS (Min. 40 dropbacks)

QB ISO PERCENTAGE FROM 2023 (Min. 100 dropbacks)