American football drills
American football catching drills
6 free American football drills for catching, each with the setup, how it runs, what to coach, and how to make it harder or easier.
6 drills
CatchingBall carryingCatch through contact and tuckReceivers catch a crossing throw as a shield pads them, tuck the ball away from a second shield and turn upfield.12 min · 4–10 players · U13+
Kicking & special teamsCatchingCatching punts and kickoffsReturners learn to get under a high kick early, catch it at the chest and signal a fair catch.15 min · 3–12 players · U10+
CatchingCatching with the diamond and pocketPartners build soft hands: a diamond for high balls, pinkies together for low ones and a pocket over the shoulder.12 min · 2–20 players · U8+
Route runningCatchingRoute tree basics: slant, out and goReceivers learn three core routes from the route tree and finish each one with a catch.15 min · 4–14 players · U9+
Team plays & schemesCatchingScreen pass timingThe line sells pass protection for a two-count, lets the rush through, and sets up a convoy for a running back screen.15 min · 10–22 players · U14+
Takeaways & ball skillsCatchingTip drill and interceptionsDefenders in a column tip the coach's throw up for a teammate to intercept at its highest point, then return it.10 min · 3–12 players · U12+