Youth Football LB Drills: Dominate The Gridiron!

Oct 25, 2025 by Jhon Lennon 49 views

Hey football fanatics! Ever wonder how those linebackers become absolute beasts on the field? It's not just about size and strength, guys; it's about the right drills, the perfect technique, and a whole lot of grit. If you're looking to level up your youth football LB game, or if you're a coach wanting to give your players the edge, you've come to the right place. We're diving deep into the essential LB drills for youth football that will build a foundation for success. We will explore drills designed to improve tackling, shedding blocks, and reading plays, all tailored for young athletes. Let's get started on becoming a gridiron general! Ready to turn your young players into tackling machines and play-reading gurus? Let's break down some killer drills!

Core LB Drills for Youth Football

Alright, let's get into the nitty-gritty. These drills are the cornerstones of any solid LB training program. They are designed to improve key aspects of their game, from tackling to shedding blocks. Before getting started, remember to focus on proper form and safety. And remember, the goal isn't just to complete the drill; it's to master the technique. Repetition is key, guys! Before each session, ensure the field is clear of any hazards and that the kids are properly warmed up with dynamic stretches, like arm circles, leg swings, and torso twists. Always emphasize the importance of hydration. Also, be sure to tailor the drills to the age and skill level of your players. Don't push them too hard, too fast; focus on building a strong foundation.

1. The Angle Tackle Drill

This drill is crucial for developing proper tackling technique. It focuses on the angle of pursuit and making a safe, controlled tackle. The Angle Tackle Drill is the bedrock for successful tackling in youth football. This drill teaches the crucial skill of approaching the ball carrier at the correct angle to secure a solid tackle. To set it up, place two cones about 5-7 yards apart. The coach or another player stands at one cone and the linebacker at the other. The coach then walks or jogs towards a point past the linebacker, simulating a ball carrier. The linebacker must sprint towards the coach, taking an angle to meet him at the cone. The objective is to make contact with the 'ball carrier' using the correct tackling form: The linebackers must keep their head up, eyes on the target, feet moving, and wrap the arms around the legs to drive the target to the ground. Emphasize wrapping the arms, keeping the head up, and driving through the target. Start with the players walking through the drill and gradually increase the speed. Guys, remember to have them focus on their footwork and body positioning. This drill improves the linebackers' ability to close the gap and secure tackles in open space, crucial for preventing big plays. Proper tackling technique prevents injury and maximizes effectiveness.

2. The Shed Block Drill

Shedding blocks is all about getting off blocks and making the play. This drill is designed to teach linebackers how to disengage from blockers and get to the ball carrier. Set up the drill with a blocking dummy or a willing teammate. The linebacker starts in a three-point stance, facing the blocker. The blocker initiates the block, and the linebacker must react by using their hands and feet to shed the block. Common techniques include a rip, swim, or club move to disengage from the blocker and find the ball carrier. The emphasis should be on keeping the feet moving, using proper hand placement to control the blocker, and maintaining the line of sight to the ball carrier. Make sure the players focus on their hand placement and driving through the blocker. The linebacker must practice disengaging quickly and efficiently to pursue the ball carrier. Teach the players to keep their feet moving throughout the entire process and to maintain their balance.

3. The Pursuit Drill

This drill improves the linebackers' ability to pursue the ball carrier from sideline to sideline. The Pursuit Drill is designed to develop the linebackers' speed, agility, and ability to track the ball carrier, especially when the play goes wide. To set up the drill, have the linebackers line up in a straight line, and then have a coach or another player simulate a ball carrier running in a straight line at varying speeds. The linebackers will then sprint, taking an angle and chasing the ball carrier down to make a tackle. This will improve their angles and speed to the ball. The key is to run at a consistent pace and maintain their position relative to the ball carrier. This drill will work on their technique and ability to make tackles in space. Emphasize proper running form, with high knees and driving arms. The players should work on their speed and angles.

4. The Read and React Drill

This drill helps linebackers read the offensive play and react accordingly. It's all about reading keys and making quick decisions. Set up the drill with a coach or another player at the quarterback position. The coach can simulate different offensive plays by using different hand signals or movements. The linebacker must read the play, identify the key, and react appropriately. For example, if the coach fakes a run, the linebacker must react by filling the gap or shedding the block. If the coach throws a pass, the linebacker must drop into coverage. This helps linebackers improve their ability to diagnose plays and react quickly. Focus on teaching your players to identify pre-snap keys, such as the offensive formation and the quarterback's eyes. Then, encourage them to read the play as it develops. Encourage them to be decisive in their actions. This drill helps the players improve their ability to anticipate plays and react quickly, which is essential for any successful linebacker.

Advanced LB Drills for Youth Football

Once the players have mastered the basics, you can introduce more advanced drills. These drills will challenge them further and help them develop their skills to the next level. Let's delve into some drills that will push your linebackers to excel in youth football. Remember to focus on intensity and precision, guys! These drills are all about refining technique and building on the fundamentals we covered earlier. Safety is still paramount, and we will tailor these advanced drills to match the abilities of young athletes. The aim is to create a dynamic training environment that keeps them engaged and motivated. Ready to take it up a notch? Here are some drills to consider.

1. The Pass Coverage Drill

Linebackers need to know how to cover receivers. This drill improves their pass coverage skills, which is crucial in today's football. You can set up cones in a grid pattern to simulate different routes. The linebacker starts by backpedaling and then has to break on the ball to defend the pass. The focus should be on proper technique, including backpedaling, hip turns, and staying in front of the receiver. This drill will work on the linebackers' footwork and ability to cover receivers. Focus on teaching your players how to read the quarterback's eyes and anticipate the throw. Also, teach them how to position themselves to make a play on the ball. The drill will work on their technique and ability to cover receivers and prevent completions.

2. The Pursuit and Tackle Drill (with Obstacles)

This drill combines pursuit with tackling, adding obstacles to challenge the linebackers. Set up a course with cones or agility ladders. The linebacker must navigate the obstacles while pursuing the 'ball carrier' and make a tackle at the end. The Pursuit and Tackle Drill with obstacles is designed to enhance the linebackers' agility and tackling skills. This drill builds on the basic pursuit and tackle drills by adding agility components. To set this up, you'll need cones and maybe an agility ladder. The linebacker starts by going through an agility drill to simulate a play. Once they finish the agility drill, the linebacker must sprint toward a cone while the player who is the ball carrier runs in a different direction. The linebacker must tackle this player. The drill enhances both agility and tackling skills by requiring linebackers to navigate obstacles before making a tackle. This drill tests their ability to maintain balance and make quick decisions while moving. The addition of obstacles makes it more challenging.

3. The Blitz Drill

This drill is designed to develop the linebackers' ability to rush the passer. You can set up this drill with a coach or a quarterback at the offensive position and the linebacker rushing to tackle the quarterback. The emphasis should be on the proper technique for rushing the passer, including the stance, get-off, and hand placement. This drill helps the linebackers improve their ability to rush the passer, which will give them the upper hand in games. Teach the players how to use their hands to get past the blockers. This drill helps linebackers develop the skills needed to effectively blitz the quarterback.

4. The Block Recognition and Reaction Drill

This drill teaches linebackers how to identify blocking schemes and react accordingly. Set up the drill with a coach or teammate as the offensive player. The player can use a variety of blocking techniques. The linebacker must read the block and react by shedding the block or making a tackle. This will help linebackers to quickly recognize and react to different blocking schemes, improving their ability to make plays. Focus on teaching your players how to identify pre-snap keys, such as the offensive formation and the offensive linemen's stances. This will help them anticipate the blocks. The drill works on their ability to recognize and react to different blocking schemes.

Drills for Specific LB Positions

Linebacker positions require slightly different skill sets. Let's look at drills designed for different LB roles. Coaches, it is crucial to understand that each position has its unique responsibilities. Tailoring drills to these specific roles will maximize the development of your players. Let's fine-tune our approach to ensure all your linebackers are ready to dominate on game day!

Middle Linebacker (MLB) Drills

The MLB is the quarterback of the defense. They need to be great at reading plays, tackling, and making adjustments. They need to be the vocal leader of the defense. Focus on drills that improve their ability to read the play.

Play Recognition Drills: These drills help MLBs read offensive formations, recognize plays, and make appropriate adjustments. The MLB reads the play and calls out the formation.
Gap Control Drills: These drills focus on the MLB's ability to fill the correct gaps and stop the run. Place cones representing the offensive line. The MLB must identify the running back's trajectory and align accordingly.
Communication Drills: MLBs must communicate defensive calls. Practice drills where the MLB calls the play and makes adjustments based on the offensive formation.

Outside Linebacker (OLB) Drills

OLBs need to be versatile, able to rush the passer, defend the run, and cover receivers. Develop OLBs through a focus on versatility, blending pass rushing, run defense, and coverage skills.

Pass Rush Drills: OLBs need to be able to rush the passer, so drills focused on pass rushing will be helpful. The OLB lines up against a blocker and works on different pass-rushing moves, such as the swim move or bull rush.
Containment Drills: These drills focus on the OLB's ability to set the edge and contain the run. The OLB must stay outside the blocker to prevent the running back from getting outside.
Coverage Drills: These drills focus on the OLB's ability to drop into coverage. The OLB must cover the receiver and prevent the completion.

Coaching Tips and Best Practices

Here are some tips to help you get the most out of your LB drills:

Focus on Fundamentals: Always emphasize the basics: proper stance, footwork, tackling form, and hand placement. Make sure these fundamental skills are second nature to your players. Proper tackling technique is always important, guys! It is the base for tackling, which is one of the most important skills in football.
Make it Fun: Keep the drills engaging and fun. Use games and competition to motivate your players. Add some excitement by adding some competition or small prizes. It makes the practice go by faster and adds some fun to the practice!
Provide Constant Feedback: Give your players feedback on their performance. Focus on what they are doing well and what they need to improve. Offer constructive criticism. Encourage them to ask questions and take your coaching to heart.
Vary the Drills: Don't do the same drills every practice. Mix it up to keep your players engaged and challenge them in different ways. Switch up the drills to keep the training fresh and exciting.
Emphasize Safety: Always prioritize safety. Make sure your players are properly warmed up and cooled down. Use proper equipment and supervise the drills closely.
Film Study: Use film study to help your players understand the game. Show them clips of NFL linebackers and have them analyze their techniques. Review game footage with your players to highlight successes and identify areas for improvement. This helps them understand the game from a different perspective and learn from the best.
Conditioning: Don't forget conditioning! Linebackers need to be in great shape. Incorporate conditioning drills into your practices. Include a variety of conditioning drills, such as sprints, agility exercises, and endurance runs, to build their stamina and prevent fatigue.

Conclusion: Building Champions on and off the Field!

Alright, folks, we've covered a ton of ground today! You now have a solid foundation of essential and advanced LB drills for youth football. By incorporating these drills into your training, you'll be well on your way to developing a group of tough, skilled linebackers who can dominate the gridiron. But remember, it's not just about the drills. It's about instilling a love for the game, teaching teamwork, and building character. These drills, when combined with your coaching, will not only make them better football players but also better people. So, get out there, start practicing, and watch your young athletes grow into champions! Encourage a positive environment, guys. Keep the energy high, the drills challenging, and the focus on improvement. With dedication and hard work, your linebackers will be ready to lead your team to victory! Go out there, and dominate the game! Remember, a well-drilled linebacker is a game-changer!