Linebackers are workhorses on the football field. Whether they are blocking defensive linemen or chasing down runners before they reach open field, linebackers play both sides of the line. Preparing to play linebacker requires completing offensive and defensive drills, speed drills and weight training. Linebackers also must learn to quickly and accurately read the play being set by the opposing team. Spending extra time during the off-season focusing on these skills will lead to a more successful season as a linebacker.
Balance
Balance is a necessary skill for linebackers, who must stay on their feet while blockers try to take them out of the play and running backs trying to fake a move. Balance and footwork go hand-in-hand for a linebacker and improving one often requires improving the other. Study the footwork of Hall of Fame linebackers such as Dick Butkus and Mike Singletary. Work on footwork with ladder running drills. Completing the drill with footballs thrown to you from different angles will work both balance and footwork.
Strength
Strength training gives a linebacker a better ability to power through blockers, which is key to being successful at the position. When a linebacker is able to power through a blocker, he can quickly reach the ball carrier, which makes him a large asset to a football team. By strengthening arm muscles, a linebacker can deflect a blocker and avoid being stopped or slowed at the line of scrimmage.
Technique
Linebackers must practice both tackling and line-of-scrimmage techniques. Improving tackling technique not only benefits the team, but can keep the linebacker safe during the tackle. Improper technique can lead to a serious injury. Linebackers must run tackling drills on a regular basis with a coach to check and improve technique and increase tackling skill.
Speed
While every player on the football field needs speed, linebackers with speed are highly regarded because of their ability to stop a play by the opposing team. Run speed drills regularly to help improve speed over time. Combine speed drills with strength and technique improvements for an even greater speed improvement.
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