Screens teach receivers to catch and move, and they teach other kids blocking. This is the first drill where kids see themselves as a unit instead of individual routes.
Equipment needed: 6 cones, 2 balls, 3 receivers, 2 blockers.
Setup: Mark a 5-yard by 10-yard zone with cones. Receiver lines up at the line of scrimmage facing the QB, about 8 yards out. Two blockers line up 1 yard to each side of the receiver. QB is 4 yards back.
How to run it:
- QB calls “Screen left” or “Screen right” with a snap count.
- Blockers step toward the direction of the screen and prepare to stay in front of the receiver after the catch.
- Receiver takes two steps back (away from the LOS), becomes a dump-off target. QB throws a soft, high pass that lands in their hands.
- Receiver catches, accelerates in the direction blockers are moving. Blockers stay in front for 5 yards.
- Do 6 reps, then switch receiver and blockers.
What to look for:
Blockers should be moving before the receiver catches the ball, not reacting after. The QB’s throw has to be catchable without the receiver jumping or extending. If a blocker is standing still waiting to see what happens, they’re behind. The receiver should feel the screen forming and trust the blockers to move. If the receiver is dancing after the catch, the blockers aren’t doing their job.
Variation: Add a defender 8 yards away. Now the blockers have a job: keep that defender off the receiver. Receivers shouldn’t get hit before they have space to move. Once kids see screens working, they understand why the play exists.