Building Speed in the Trenches: A Guide for Young Offensive Linemen

When developing speed for young offensive linemen, it's crucial to understand that we're not training sprinters - we're building explosive, powerful athletes who need to move efficiently in short bursts. As someone who's trained linemen at multiple levels, I've found that focusing on the right type of speed work makes all the difference.

Foundation First Before diving into speed work, young linemen need to master basic movement patterns. This means learning to:

• Move from an athletic stance

• Maintain proper posture while moving

• Control their body weight effectively

• Change direction safely

The 10-Yard Zone For offensive linemen, most crucial plays happen within 10 yards. Our speed development focuses on:

• Explosive first three steps

• Quick direction changes

• Lateral movement

• Short-area quickness

Essential Drills Start with these fundamental movements:

Quick Feet Ladder Work The speed ladder isn't about fancy footwork - it's about teaching young athletes to move their feet quickly while maintaining balance. Focus on:

• Forward/backward runs

• Lateral shuffles

• Two-in, two-out patterns

• Single leg hops

Cone Drills Set up cones in various patterns to develop change of direction:

• 5-yard shuttle runs

• Figure-8 patterns

• L-drills

• Mirror drills

Position-Specific Speed Work Incorporate football movements:

• Pass set transitions

• Pull drills

• Kick-slide sequences

• Reach block steps

Plyometric Development For young athletes, bodyweight plyometrics build explosive power safely:

• Box jumps (moderate height)

• Broad jumps

• Lateral bounds

• Jump rope work

Keys to Success

1. Perfect Form With young athletes, proper technique always comes first. Speed without control leads to bad habits and potential injuries.

2. Progressive Loading Start with basic movements and gradually increase complexity. Don't rush to advanced drills before mastering fundamentals.

3. Adequate Recovery Young athletes need proper rest between explosive movements. Quality over quantity is essential.

4. Make It Fun Incorporate competitions and games into training. Young athletes learn better when they're engaged and enjoying themselves.

Remember: developing speed in young offensive linemen isn't about creating track stars - it's about building efficient, explosive athletes who can dominate in the trenches. Focus on quality movement patterns, proper progression, and position-specific applications.

Want to see these concepts in action? Join us for our Winter Youth Skills Camp where we'll implement these drills and more in a fun, developmental environment.