Coach ,

It starts with getting off the ball.  Of course, with more and more teams playing press, that requires the receiver is great at the line of scrimmage.

Footfire Release 

Northwestern WR Coach Dennis Springer explains the techniques he teaches and the importance of both hands and feet at the release.

Emphasis is on seeing the target of the hand. Be intentional and clear the hands.  Coach Springer points out that if you can clear the hands, you can win the route.

He explains the technique in this video:

Video: Footfire Release

2nd Level Release

2nd level release is like working a press release but down field.  Now the receiver has speed but still has to have a good base.  He is still attacking leverage.

NY Giants WR Coach Christian Jones works this release in space down the field.  

Coach Jones explains it in this video:

Video: 2nd Level Release

Here is the technique on game film:

Video: 2nd Level Release Game Film

Double Up

Minnesota WR Coach Tony Sorrentino teaches a technique called “Double Up” in teaching his players to be the complete wide receiver.  The Double Up is like a cross over in basketball and can be executed at the line of scrimmage or downfield.

He illustrates the technique in this video.

Video: Double UP

The drills don’t have to be complicated, but the technique needs to repped over and over so they become second nature.  Attention to detail in the coaching is the key and these coaches provided great detail in their clinic talks.

With the time crunch we have to get our players ready, finding the great drills that teach the skills our players will execute the most just makes sense.

Good luck as you kick off camp for the 2023 season!

Always be growing!

Keith Grabowski

P.S.

Whether you watch them all before the season or keep them handy on your digital shelf for reference during the season, the knowledge shared in the Prep For Camp- WR Edition will help you grow as a coach. This resource is available now.