Unlocking Tight End Potential: The 'Route Box' Drill for DII-AAA TE's
The 'Route Box' drill is a game-changing exercise for tight ends at DII-AAA programs like the MBA Trojans. This drill focuses on quick releases, precise footwork, and spatial awareness. Set up a 10x10 foot box with cones, with four corners labeled 'X', 'Y', 'Z', and 'W'. Divide the box into quadrants with tape. TE's will start at the 'X' corner, then perform a series of 3-5 reps of the following routes: 'Y' to 'W', 'Z' to 'X', and 'Y' to 'Z'. Coaching cues include: 'Quick release, eyes on the target' and 'Inside foot first, outside foot second'. This drill translates to game performance by improving TE's ability to quickly read defenses and find open spaces. Run 3 sets of 10 reps, 2-3 times a week, to see significant improvement in your TE's route running.