In the last issue of GS, we concentrated on what is expected of a wide receiver, basic wide receiver principles, and specific areas of pass coverage. We also talked about the mentality of a wide receiver, the proper stance and start, blocking mechanics and reading coverage.

We are devoting this article to everyday drills you can use. They include the stance/start drill, angle releases, catching drills, blaster drill, catching across the field drills, diving catch drills, the sideline catch drill, and the push off – turn/curl drill.


Diagram 1: Proper Stance and Start Drill

The stance includes shoulders over toes, knees bent and proper balance. Accelerate off the line and run in a straight line with no false steps.


Diagram 2: Angle Release Drill

The stance includes shoulders over toes, kness bent and proper balance. Release and sprint at different angles.

Diagram 3: Catching Drill 1

Carioca and then run through bags used primarily as a distraction.

Diagram 4: Catching Drill II

Release on bag and work on cutback cut. Always keep shoulders down and arms pumping.

Diagram 5: Catching Drill III

Play catch with another WR. Throw to each other high balls, low balls, to the right and left face, and over each shoulder.

Diagram 6: Catch and Run Through Blaster Drill

This drill teaches the receiver to get up the field and get their pads down
after the catch.

Diagram 7: Catching Across the Field Drill

Play catch, jogging across the field. Be 10 yards apart and throw high
and low balls.

Diagram 8: Diving Catch Drill

Practice diving onto a mat with this drill. Never land on top of the ball.

Diagram 9: Sideline Catch Drill

Line-up your WR about five yards from the sideline. Throw the ball to him as he is running to the sideline and attempts to stay inbounds as he catches the ball. Throw high, low, and behind the WR.

Diagram 10: Push off Drill

The DB and WR line-up side-by-side in this drill. The WR pushes past the DB by putting his hand on his lower back. He then angles back for a curl route.


Because at the end of the day our WRs job is to catch the football, we will use the football in every drill we do every day. We will also work on blocking every day in the inside run game, the perimeter run game and pass game. We will be the best in getting off the jam versus press coverage, and we will work on these techniques every day in individual drills, one-on-one, and team periods. Every drill we do will be done with the correct stance and start. The cones will be our best friends, as we will use them every day to work on our breaks. REMEMBER, the greatest receivers are the ones who can get open on any kind of route.

About the author: Cedric Shell recently completed his fifth season on the staff of McPherson College. 2011 was his second year as Passing Game Coordinator and for all five seasons he has coached wide receivers.