Quick out

“Quick out” typically refers to a passing route performed by a wide receiver (or occasionally a tight end or running back) as part of a passing play in American football. The quick-out route is intended for the receiver to make a fast sideline cut and catch a short pass from the quarterback, typically within a few yards of the line of scrimmage. This route aims to gain a few yards and get out of bounds to halt the clock or efficiently advance the ball down the field.

Here’s how things typically work:

The receiver positions up a few yards downfield from the quarterback on the line of scrimmage.

At the snap of the ball, the receiver takes a few quick strides forward and then makes a sharp 45-degree cut toward the sideline.

The quarterback throws a quick and accurate pass to the receiver, ideally striking them in stride as they make their cut.

If executed properly, the receiver catches the ball and immediately steps out of bounds or tries to gain additional yards while remaining close to the sideline.

When the offense needs to halt the clock, gain positive yardage on an early down, or exploit a soft zone defense in which the cornerback or defender is playing off the line of scrimmage, the quick-out route is frequently employed. It is an essential route in football and can be incorporated into numerous passing concepts and plays.