Rockets' Tight End Training: 'Slant and Go' Drill
Miami Central Rockets' tight end coach, Alex Johnson, shares a crucial drill to refine his players' route-running skills. The 'Slant and Go' drill is designed to improve quick releases, separation, and downfield speed. Set up cones in a 10-yard grid, with two rows of three cones each. Divide players into pairs, with one player as the receiver and the other as the defender. The receiver starts at the line of scrimmage, while the defender lines up 5 yards off. On the snap, the receiver runs a 5-yard slant, then immediately cuts upfield. The defender must react quickly to the slant and then pursue the receiver downfield. Repeat for 3 sets of 10 reps. Coaching cues: 'Quick release, eyes up, and go!' This drill translates to game performance by improving tight ends' ability to create separation and make plays downfield.