What happened: Kirk Cousins has not taken a sack against the blitz in 2026 across at least 50 qualifying dropbacks, leading all qualifying passers. C.J. Stroud and Cam Ward have absorbed three blitz sacks each, while Patrick Mahomes, Bo Nix, Bryce Young, and Kyler Murray have absorbed four apiece.
Why it matters: Quick processing against extra pass rushers has eliminated negative plays for Kirk Cousins, who has 20 touchdown passes in nine games this season. Avoiding drive-killing sacks against pressure packages remains critical as passing offenses navigate high-leverage downs.
By the numbers: • Kirk Cousins: 0 sacks taken vs. blitz (min. 50 dropbacks) • C.J. Stroud: 3 sacks taken vs. blitz • Cam Ward: 3 sacks taken vs. blitz • Patrick Mahomes: 4 sacks taken vs. blitz • Bo Nix: 4 sacks taken vs. blitz • Bryce Young: 4 sacks taken vs. blitz • Kyler Murray: 4 sacks taken vs. blitz
What to watch: Defenses continue testing protection schemes with blitz packages as the 2026 regular season enters Week 10.