Unlocking the Tight End Potential: A Drill for 6A Programs
At Lake Oswego Lakers' summer camp, tight end coach, Mike Smith, has been emphasizing the importance of route running and separation. To improve in these areas, the Lakers are incorporating a drill that targets footwork, agility, and hand-eye coordination. The drill, dubbed 'Route Runners,' involves a series of ladder drills and cone runs that simulate game scenarios. Players will perform 3 sets of 10 reps each, focusing on quick cuts, sharp changes of direction, and explosive acceleration. Coaching cues include 'inside-out' footwork, keeping the head on a swivel, and using the eyes to find the ball. This drill translates to game performance by allowing TEs to develop the agility and quickness needed to create separation from defenders and find open spaces in the end zone.