Why is it that receivers in the NFL now drop passes so frequently, compared to receivers in the 1960s?

Question

I remember two receivers on the Detroit Lions in the 1960s named Gail Cogdill and Pat Studstill. If they could reach a pass at all they would invariably catch it. Nowadays it is not at all uncommon for NFL receivers to drop passes that hit them on the numbers. Why is this?

Answer 1

I think blibityblabity hit the nail right on the head.

Answer 2

cuz they all wear gloves now!!! gloves don't help! in fact for me they do the opposite!!!

Answer 3

because they're scared of the safeties, and because some are just plain butter fingers

Answer 4

your old

Answer 5

The balls are coming a lot faster for one. Two, they are shaped more oblong, to make it easier to throw, and harder to catch. 3, a slow guy with hands could play back then, not now. 4 It's easier to remember the catches and not the drops. 5 The defensive backs are much better.