When does a forward pass officially end?

A forward pass officially ends when it either touches the ground or goes out of bounds. This rule is crucial for understanding the mechanics of passing in football, as it determines the progression of play and what constitutes a successful pass. When a pass is thrown, if it does not reach a player on the same team and hits the ground, that ends the play, and the offensive team must start over with the next down. Additionally, if the ball is thrown and travels out of bounds, it also signifies the end of that play. This clarity ensures that all players understand when the play transitions, preventing any confusion about its continuity.

In contrast, when a forward pass is caught, the play itself continues as long as the player maintains possession and does not go out of bounds or touch the ground before the catch is secured. Simply having the quarterback release the ball does not mark the end of a forward pass, as the dynamics of the play remain in effect until one of the conditions defined by the rules occurs. This makes it essential for players and teams to recognize the specific situations that lead to the completion of a passing play.