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Brian Bratton, Assistant Coach, Indianapolis Colts

Full video available on Glazier Drive: WR Blocking Progression 

This video covers essential wide receiver blocking techniques focusing on the "stock block" - a fundamental skill that can transform your run game effectiveness.

CORE PHILOSOPHY: BE A THREAT

The foundation of effective WR blocking starts with coming off the ball as a threat. When receivers sell the pass initially, defensive backs naturally backpedal, creating more space and making the blocking assignment easier. If receivers trot off the ball, DBs stay closer to the line of scrimmage and become harder to block.

THE "COME TO BALANCE" TECHNIQUE

Instead of teaching receivers to "break down" (which often causes players to stop their feet), use the concept of "coming to balance." This keeps everything fluid and moving. The key timing is when the DB transitions out of his backpedal - typically 3-4 yards away from the receiver. At this point, receivers should come to balance while maintaining proper leverage.

PROPER BLOCKING SEQUENCE

The progression follows these steps: come off the ball as a threat, allow the DB to backpedal, come to balance when he transitions (3-4 yards away), read where the ball is going, close ground on the defender, make contact with proper hand placement, and maintain the block.

STAYING SQUARE IS CRITICAL

Receivers must stay square to give the running back a "two-way go." If the receiver's body turns one direction, it tells the running back he can only cut one way, limiting options and potentially forcing him toward the sideline or into more defenders.

TIMING THE CONTACT

Don't make contact too early, as this requires sustaining the block for too long and increases holding risk. Wait for the DB to commit, then make contact with proper timing so the block only needs to be maintained for the necessary duration.

COVERAGE ADJUSTMENTS

Against different coverages like Cover 2, be smart about the approach. Against low corners who are force players, still be a threat initially but understand they'll recognize run faster, so adjust the technique accordingly while maintaining proper outside eye leverage.

COMMON MISTAKES TO AVOID

The biggest error shown is being late to come to balance. When receivers continue forward too long after the DB exits his backpedal, they lose body control, power, and proper knee/hip/ankle bend needed to change directions and maintain leverage.

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