Improving LB Speed and Agility with the 'Ladder Shuffle' Drill
As the 5A season approaches, linebackers at Covington Catholic Colonels and other top programs are focusing on increasing their speed and agility. One effective drill to achieve this is the 'Ladder Shuffle.' This exercise targets the quick changes of direction and rapid acceleration that are critical for linebackers in the open field. To set up the drill, place a ladder on the ground and have the LB players perform the following sequence: 3 sets of 10 reps (each leg) of lateral shuffles through the ladder, followed by 3 sets of 10 reps of forward-backward shuffles. Coaching cues include keeping the feet low and the knees bent, and focusing on explosive acceleration out of each shuffle. This drill translates to game performance by improving the LB's ability to quickly close gaps and pursue ball carriers in pursuit.