A screen pass is a play in gridiron football where the quarterback throws a short pass to a receiver who is protected by a screen of blockers. During a screen pass, the offensive line releases their blocks and moves downfield to block for the receiver, creating a wall of blockers between the receiver and the defenders. The purpose of a screen pass is to slow down the rush of the defense, force the defensive line coaches to prepare for the screen during the week, and make the defensive coordinator second guess himself the next time he is tempted to call a blitz or pressure.

A screen pass can be executed using a shovel pass throwing motion, where the quarterback palms the football and "shovels" the pass directly forward to the receiver, usually with a backhand, underhand, or pushing motion. If run properly, the defensive backs will be run out of the play by the receivers, and the defensive line will penetrate too far to make a play on the ball carrier.

Screen passes can be effective, but they can also be risky as it is rather easy for a defensive player, even a lineman, to intercept the pass if a defender gets between the quarterback and the intended receiver. If the pass is intercepted, there are often few offensive players in front of the intercepting player, thus making it much easier for the intercepting team to earn a large return or to score a touchdown.

In summary, a screen pass is a play in gridiron football where the quarterback throws a short pass to a receiver who is protected by a screen of blockers. The purpose of a screen pass is to slow down the rush of the defense, force the defensive line coaches to prepare for the screen during the week, and make the defensive coordinator second guess himself the next time he is tempted to call a blitz or pressure.