Running Back Agility Drills

About the importance of running back agility

Running backs have to be strong and quick, but most of all they also have to be agile. Running backs need their agility to be able to cut to the opening quick enough so that the defense doesn’t have a chance to close that gap before the running back gets through. They also need their agility to cut out would be tacklers in the open field and to run precise passroutes.

Running back agility drills

	High Knee Drill with Bags This drill is a fantastic tool for running backs coaches looking to enhance their players' footwork, ball security, and overall running technique. It specifically targets high knee running, a crucial skill for navigating defenders and maintaining balance during ball carries.
	Zig Zag Run Drill The Zig Zag Run Drill is a cornerstone agility drill for developing explosive cutting ability, body control, and ball security in running backs. It trains them to make sharp changes of direction while maintaining balance and explosiveness, crucial skills for eluding defenders and creating running lanes.
	Speed Ladder Drills The speed ladder help the players to learn to pick up their feet while running and changing directions. They also force the players to set their feet precisely until it becomes natural to them. Especially for runningbacks it is of high importance to be able to change direction at any moment without "forgetting" to pick up their feet and put them into the ground with authority.
	Freeze Drill The Freeze Drill is a fundamental tool for developing explosive first steps in football players. It isolates and trains the mechanics of initial movement, allowing coaches to refine footwork, arm action, and overall explosiveness off the line. Here's a detailed breakdown of the drill:
	Stance and Start Drill The Stance and Start Drill builds upon the foundation established by the Freeze Drill. It takes the focus on proper first step mechanics and transitions that into a smooth and efficient acceleration into full running form. This drill bridges the gap between isolated first-step training and explosive bursts required on the field.
	Square Drill The Square Drill is a fundamental tool for developing sharp, explosive 90-degree cuts in running backs. This drill trains them to efficiently change direction while maintaining speed and control, a crucial skill for navigating defenders and exploiting openings in the defense.
	Jump Cut Drill The Jump Cut Drill is a critical tool for developing running backs' cutting ability, particularly in zone running plays. It trains them to attack the line of scrimmage at full speed, identify openings at the last second, and explosively change direction without sacrificing momentum. Here's a detailed breakdown of the drill: