The Most Common Wide Receiver Routes in Football: A Beginner’s Guide
- James Purvis
- Jan 28
- 4 min read
Wide receiver routes are the building blocks of every football passing game. Each route is designed to create separation from the defender, provide the quarterback with a reliable target, and keep the offense moving down the field. Understanding the most common routes is essential for players, coaches, and fans who want to deepen their knowledge of the game.
Here’s a breakdown of the most common wide receiver routes, their descriptions, and how they’re used in game situations:
1. The Slant Route
Description: The slant route is a quick, diagonal route where the receiver takes 3–5 steps forward and cuts sharply at a 45-degree angle toward the middle of the field.
Purpose: This is a high-percentage route that works well against soft zone coverage. It’s often used in quick passing situations to gain 5–10 yards.
When It’s Run: Ideal for short-yardage plays or when the quarterback needs to release the ball quickly.
2. The Hitch Route
Description: Also known as a "stop" route, the hitch involves the receiver sprinting 5–7 yards downfield before stopping abruptly and turning back toward the quarterback.
Purpose: The hitch creates a quick, open target for the quarterback, especially if the defender is playing off the receiver.
When It’s Run: Common on 3rd-and-short situations or as a way to move the chains when the defense is giving cushion.
3. The Out Route
Description: The out route sees the receiver running 5–15 yards downfield before cutting sharply at a 90-degree angle toward the sideline.
Purpose: This route takes the receiver toward the boundary, making it difficult for defenders to intercept or break up the pass.
When It’s Run: Frequently used in timing-based offenses, especially near the sideline or to stop the clock late in games.
4. The In Route (Dig)
Description: Similar to the out route, the in (or dig) route involves the receiver running 10–15 yards downfield before cutting at a 90-degree angle toward the middle of the field.
Purpose: This route is great for attacking the middle of the field and creating space for the quarterback to throw.
When It’s Run: Often used on intermediate passing plays to exploit zone coverage.
5. The Post Route
Description: The receiver runs 10–15 yards downfield, then cuts at a 45-degree angle toward the center of the field, resembling the shape of a goalpost.
Purpose: This route stretches the defense vertically and is often designed to hit big plays downfield.
When It’s Run: Common in deep passing situations or when the offense is looking for a quick strike.
6. The Corner Route
Description: Similar to the post route, the receiver runs 10–15 yards downfield but breaks at a 45-degree angle toward the sideline.
Purpose: The corner route targets the soft spot in zone coverage near the sidelines, providing the quarterback with a chance to drop the ball into space.
When It’s Run: Frequently used in red zone situations or on deep passes.
7. The Go Route (Fly)
Description: The go route is a straight sprint downfield, with the receiver aiming to outrun the defender and create separation for a deep pass.
Purpose: It’s the ultimate deep threat route, designed to take the top off the defense and gain significant yardage.
When It’s Run: Common when teams want to stretch the defense or when they have a speed advantage.
8. The Fade Route
Description: On a fade route, the receiver runs down the sideline, staying outside the numbers, with the quarterback throwing a high, arcing pass that the receiver can catch in stride.
Purpose: This is a one-on-one route designed to take advantage of the receiver’s size, speed, or leaping ability.
When It’s Run: Common in goal-line or red-zone situations where space is tight.
9. The Comeback Route
Description: The receiver sprints 10–15 yards downfield before turning sharply back toward the sideline and the quarterback.
Purpose: The comeback route creates separation by forcing the defender to backpedal, making it difficult to recover.
When It’s Run: Often used when receivers are tightly covered or in timing-based offenses.
10. Wide Receiver Screen Route
Description: On a screen route, the receiver stays close to the line of scrimmage, catching a short pass behind blockers to gain yardage after the catch.
Purpose: This route capitalizes on the receiver’s ability to make plays in open space with blockers leading the way.
When It’s Run: Frequently used to neutralize aggressive pass rushes or as a quick, safe passing option.
Understanding Route Combinations
While each route has its unique purpose, they often work together in route combinations to manipulate defenders. For example:
A slant can pair with a go route to pull defenders away from the middle of the field.
A corner route can pair with an out route to stretch zone coverage horizontally.
Final Thoughts
Mastering wide receiver routes is crucial for both players and fans who want to understand the nuances of the game. Each route has a specific role in creating opportunities, and the best offenses know how to blend them into a cohesive strategy.
Whether you’re a player looking to perfect your technique or a fan trying to keep up with the action on Sundays, understanding these routes will give you a deeper appreciation for the art of football.