Linebackers are often the most important and versatile defensive players on the football field. Linebackers have to be able to stop the run, to toss aside blockers, track down running backs and make tackles. Linebackers also have to cover running backs and tight ends on pass patterns and rush the quarterback. Linebackers must do drills and exercises that prepare them to make plays.
Toss and Sprint
The linebacker must be able to fight off the block of an offensive lineman and sprint to the ballcarrier with speed. In this drill, the offensive lineman will attempt to block the linebacker's upper body. The linebacker must toss the offensive lineman aside and then sprint to the sideline to keep the play inside, where other tacklers will have a chance to make the play. Getting to the sideline quickly will keep the running back from making long run down the sidelines. Have each linebacker run this drill twice.
Shuffle and Hit
In this drill, the coach lays down four blocking pads to either side of the linebacker. On the coach's whistle, the quarterback hands the ball off to the running back as attempts to get outside the tackle box. The linebacker mirrors the running back and steps or shuffles over the blocking pads and then sprints to the ballcarrier and makes the tackle. The linebacker has to be careful not to step on the pads; he must step over them. Have each linebacker run this drill two times.
Shoot the Gap
An athletic and aggressive linebacker can be a dramatic and game-changing weapon when blitzing the quarterback. On the delayed blitz, the linebacker will hold his ground for a count of two and then shoot the gap and sprint at the quarterback. By waiting, the linebacker can find the opening in the offensive line and run without getting blocked. This requires quickness, acceleration and the hunger to hit the quarterback. Have each linebacker run this drill three times.
Strip the Ball
Linebackers have to force turnovers when they have the opportunity. This means they must attempt to strip the ball from the opposing running back, but the linebacker cannot gamble on stripping the ball at the expense of not making the tackle. In this drill involving two linebackers and a running back, the first linebacker to reach the running back attempts to stop him in his tracks and hold him up. The second linebacker should arrive an instant later and try to rip the ball from the running back by grasping the point of the football and pulling downward. Give each linebacker two attempts to perform each task.
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