Chris Buckner, Offensive Coordinator at Prairie View A&M uses practice film and game clips to demonstrate essential wide receiver release techniques for defeating press coverage.
You can view his entire presentation on Glazier Drive. It includes his philosophy and additional techniques and drills. Check it out at: WR 1st & 2nd Level Releases Technique & Drills
First Level Release Drills
- Head Lean and Toe Stick - Used as a silent indicator to quarterbacks that receivers are ready
- Clip and Rip - Targeting defender's arm and ripping through
- Clip, Drop, Pull - Grabbing defender's arm and pulling through
- Double Hand SWAT - Clearing defender's hands
Key Coaching Points
- Receivers must reduce their surface area when passing defenders
- Emphasis on violent feet and proper pad level
- Drill progression from hand techniques to full releases
- Focus on hands first before worrying about footwork
- Avoid over-complicating with false steps
Downfield Techniques
- Arm Bar Drills - Pre-practice drill for handling defender contact
- Limited to two arm bars before looking for over-shoulder/back-shoulder throws
- Goal is stacking defenders (17-24 yards downfield)
- Receivers must hold their line at contact point before fading to the ball
Game Applications
- Several game reps shown demonstrating the techniques in action
- Emphasis on aggressive hands to discourage defenders from grabbing/holding
- Technique for moving from "6 o'clock to 12 o'clock" on slant routes
- Proper cutting off of defenders to position between DB and football
The video provides excellent visualization of techniques with multiple angles and coach commentary throughout various drill progressions.