Teach Receivers to Win at the Second Level with the Shoulder Drop Release - DJ Steward

Use the shoulder drop technique to teach receivers to create separation when the defender is playing five to seven yards off at the line of scrimmage.

Towson University Wide Receivers Coach DJ Steward discusses the shoulder drop technique, with practice film and game footage.  This segment is taken from his Glazier Drive Clinic: 

Winning at the Second Level: Shoulder Drop, Stretch, & Slip

In all the DJ Steward Wide Receive System has 6 lessons on Wide Receiver play.

The shoulder drop technique works at both the first and second levels.

The first level is when the defender is pressed two to three yards off the wide receiver.

The second level is when the defender is playing 5 to 7 yards off of the receiver at the line of scrimmage.  This often is what a slot receiver faces.  He is running routes on linebackers and safeties.  

If the receiver is lined up outside (not in the slot), and the conerback is six or so yards off playing bail zone technique, that is another example of a receiver needing a second level release.

Coaching Points:

• Receiver should not drop his head and shoulders at the same time.
  
  
• The shoulder drop should be used instead of the chop technique if the defender's hands are chest level or higher.
  
  
• Close the cushion by making your shoulders skinny.