Athletically gifted defensive backs can rely on their speed and agility to close on a ball and disrupt a short pass play. However, cover corners who haven’t mastered the techniques for playing the position are sure to be burned on the deep ball.

As more offenses are inclined to stretch the field with a vertical passing attack, a cornerback’s greatest asset is his ability to flip his hips and transition from a backpedal to running downfield to cover a receiver.

Even if you’re not the most fluid athlete, playing with the right technique can help you overcome physical or athletic shortcomings.

You can start by polishing your cover skills and technique with the Backpedal and Weave Drill.

To Perform the Drill:

• Place 3-5 cones in a straight line approximately 5 yards apart.
• Line up on one side of the first cone and backpedal at the coach’s or partner’s command.
• Weave in the direction your coach or partner commands.
• Flip your hips and transition to a deep run to finish the drill.

Perform 6-8 reps

Coaching Points:

• Sink your hips and keep your shoulders over your feet during your backpedal.
• Keep your shoulders and hips square to the coach.
• Use your arms to snap your upper body around when transitioning to the deep run.

Learn more defensive back drills to improve your footwork.