Tightening Up: A TE Drill for 6A Programs
This summer, 6A teams like Olive Branch Conquistadors are focusing on developing their tight end position. One key drill to improve TE play is the 'Route Box Drill'. Divide your TEs into pairs, with one player as the receiver and the other as the defender. Set up five cones in a box shape, 5 yards apart, with the receiver starting at the center cone. The defender starts 5 yards away, focused on the receiver's hands. On the whistle, the receiver runs a 5-yard out route, then a 5-yard in route, and finally a 5-yard slant. The defender must stay in front, using footwork and hand placement to stay tight. Complete 3 sets of 10 reps, with a 30-second rest between sets. This drill improves TEs' ability to create separation and defenders' ability to stay in front, translating to game performance in the red zone.