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Jeremy Springer, Spec Teams Coord, New England Patriots

Watch the full video on Glazier Drive - Punt Return Drill Work

FUNDAMENTAL CONCEPT: SHOCK AND CONTROL

The foundation of effective punt coverage begins with "shock and control" at the line of scrimmage. Players must deliver dominant contact with eyes up, taking three hard steps into their opponent. The goal is to shock with initial contact and control movement to create vertical space for the returner.

HAND PLACEMENT AND LEVERAGE

Proper hand placement focuses on getting hands on the outside of opponents' shoulder pads rather than fighting for inside position. This creates a wider base and better control. When opponents punch with inside hands, outside hand placement provides superior leverage.

STAYING SQUARE AND LATERAL MOVEMENT

Keep opponents moving laterally rather than vertically down the field. Players stay square as long as possible with violent hands, forcing opponents east and west instead of north and south. This lateral movement creates crucial vertical space for the punt returner.

THE SHOT PUT TECHNIQUE

When opponents get outside the framework and release, use the "shot put" technique - a long arm, violent shove with the lever-side arm while getting hips on target. This forces opponents toward the sideline, creating vertical space rather than allowing downfield penetration.

DRILL PROGRESSION AND TRAINING

Specific drills develop these techniques individually or with multiple players. Key components include working the vertical set, practicing chest-to-chest contact with proper hand placement, developing footwork while staying square, and emphasizing the shot put finish. Early drills focus on shock and control; advanced drills incorporate all elements.

OVERPLAY AND UNDERPLAY CONCEPTS

Players must understand leverage based on return direction:

Overplay Technique: Used when returns come to the player's side. Execute shock and control while achieving outside leverage, forcing opponents inside toward the ball.

Underplay Technique: Used when returns go away or on vertical returns. Work for inside leverage, positioning between opponent and return.

RETURN-SPECIFIC POSITIONING

Different return calls require different leverage

PRACTICAL APPLICATION

These techniques adapt to any level and don't require full-speed practice execution. Success comes through repetition and progressive drill work. Coaches can modify drills based on resources and combine elements as players advance in understanding.

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