Introduction to Personnel Groupings

In the NFL, offensive personnel groupings are defined by the number of running backs (RBs) and tight ends (TEs) on the field, with the remaining positions filled by wide receivers (WRs). The common groupings include:

  • 11 Personnel: 1 RB, 1 TE, 3 WRs
  • 12 Personnel: 1 RB, 2 TEs, 2 WRs
  • 13 Personnel: 1 RB, 3 TEs, 1 WR
  • 21 Personnel: 2 RBs, 1 TE, 2 WRs
  • 22 Personnel: 2 RBs, 2 TEs, 1 WR

Each formation offers distinct advantages, influencing both the passing and running aspects of an offense.

2025 Season Performance

During the 2025 season, the NFL witnessed a strategic shift towards heavier personnel groupings. The Los Angeles Rams led the league with 955 snaps in 11 personnel, resulting in a league-high 6,319 yards, 51 total touchdowns, and 348 first downs. This approach, characterized by reduced sets and pre/post-snap misdirection, effectively created open throwing lanes and diversified the run game. Conversely, the San Francisco 49ers utilized 11 personnel the least, aligning with their heavy two-back system under head coach Kyle Shanahan. ([espn.com](https://www.espn.com/nfl/story/_/id/27155975/picking-nfl-best-offenses-every-personnel-grouping?utm_source=openai))

In 12 personnel, the Atlanta Falcons stood out with 233 plays, achieving an EPA of 14.77, ranking 7th in the league. Their balanced approach in this grouping facilitated both effective passing and running plays. ([sumersports.com](https://sumersports.com/teams/offensive/personnel-tendency/?personnel=12&utm_source=openai))

2026 Season Outlook

Looking ahead to the 2026 season, teams are expected to continue leveraging heavier personnel groupings to exploit mismatches and enhance offensive efficiency. The Rams' success with 11 personnel may inspire other teams to adopt similar strategies, emphasizing versatility and adaptability in their offensive schemes. Additionally, the Falcons' effective use of 12 personnel could influence other teams to incorporate more two-tight end sets to achieve a balanced offensive attack.

Conclusion

The 2025 NFL season highlighted the evolving dynamics of offensive strategies, with a notable shift towards heavier personnel groupings. Teams like the Los Angeles Rams and Atlanta Falcons demonstrated the effectiveness of these formations, setting a precedent for the 2026 season. As offenses continue to adapt, the strategic deployment of personnel groupings will remain a critical factor in achieving success on the field.