I like this hypothesis ... I also think even with taking energy off the ball it is still at a speed that makes for more drops when thrown a step behind the receiver even if the receiver is able to 'touch it with both hands'
A degree of "touch" on the ball helps receivers on all passes not just short flicks, it helps allow for the pass being off target slightly. Receivers might get their hands on a hardball but no touch will lead to fewer catches. That said. We did have some outright drops as well.