During the New York Giants' preseason opener against the Minnesota Vikings, starting quarterback Jaxson Dart was leveled by Vikings safety Jay Ward after running back Tyrone Tracy Jr. slipped on a routine dropback. Giants coach John Harbaugh called it a preventable hit, highlighting an often-overlooked aspect of football: a running back's role in pass protection.

Bengals running back Samaje Perine, known as one of the league's better pass protectors, emphasized that football is 'mano a mano' for running backs. While he set the NCAA single-game rushing record with 427 yards in 2014, Perine's $14 million career earnings stem largely from his blocking ability. He noted that being one-dimensional hurts longevity in the NFL.

Aaron Jones sought advice from veteran Brian Westbrook early in his career, who told him, 'That's your mom in the pocket.' Rhamondre Stevenson, guided by DeMarco Murray, became a proficient pass blocker and was drafted in the fourth round. Denver Broncos defensive end Zach Allen praised Stevenson's blocking skills, noting he's 'a powerful guy' who takes pride in protection.

In the 2024 season opener, Justice Hill successfully blocked Chris Jones to protect Lamar Jackson, going viral for his effort. Perine described pass blocking as 90% grit and 10% technique, requiring both mental understanding of schemes and physical willingness to engage.