Here is a step-by-step explanation of how a tight end or receiver releases from the line of scrimmage and handles the defender who stays with him to defend against the pass.

• Feet - step in the direction of the release past the outside of the defender's shoulder pads. When the defender lines up opposite the back foot, the tight end or receiver takes two steps to pass the defender's shoulder pads...
• Forearm - touches the defender's arm slightly below the top of the shoulder driving the defender's arm down...
• Opposite Arm - swings over the defender's shoulder...
• Elbow - drives into the defender's back...
• Hips - the receiver drives their hips past the defender's body.

This approach is particularly apt for short passes in the middle of the field; however pass defense increasingly involves contact downfield and this is the textbook method for handling it.