In youth flag football, the quarterback plays a critical role in the team as they call and execute plays time and time again. As there is no tackling in flag football, the emphasis instead is placed on the accuracy, pace, and decision-making, therefore, learning proper throwing drills early will help to build confidence and avoid defensive players.

Today, we will discuss a set of youth quarterback throwing drills that are easy to learn, perform, and have fun with.

The Importance of Proper Throwing Drills

Before being able to perform advanced plays, young quarterbacks must be able to understand the basics of throwing. Adequate grip, footwork, and follow-through are essential skills to ensure consistency while reducing the risk of injury.

A Guide to Basic Quarterback Throwing Drills

• Shotgun Snap Drill: Position your quarterback roughly 5 yards behind the center, with their hands ready to receive the ball. The center will then look between their legs and quickly shoot the ball back, hence the shotgun title. It’s definitely worth practicing this technique to see what strength is needed for varying distances.
• Underneath Snap Drill: Again, line the quarterback behind the center with their hand open. The center will carry the ball between their legs and places it directly into the quarterback’s open hands.
• Properly Releasing the Ball: It’s important to tell your team that the way they release the ball will vary with each throw. A short distance will require a follow-through as this supports speed and accuracy, whereas for long distances, the ball should be released further behind your head.

Quarterback Throwing Drills to Improve Your Game

1-Step Drill

• Format: Line your quarterback directly behind your center, make sure to bend their knees with their hands placed underneath.
• Direction: The center hands off the ball and assesses the field for an open receiver. Then, open up, point your shoulders, and release the ball.

3-Step Drop Drill

• Format: Position your quarterback right behind the center, with their knees bent and open hands underneath.
• Direction: When getting the ball, shuffle backwards away from the line of scrimmage. Select your receiver, line your shoulders, and step into a throw. It’s a good idea to try different angles so the movement is quick, streamlined, and unpredictable.

Shotgun Roll Out Drill

• Format: Stand the quarterback 3 to 5 yards behind the center. Make sure they are prepped to receive the snap.
• Direction: Wait for the center to perform a shotgun snap, then shuffle back away from the line of scrimmage. If the defensive rusher is on your back, continue to run or shuffle sideways until the throw is complete.

Youth Quarterback Throwing Drills

Youth quarterback throwing drills should focus on mechanics, proper timing, and movements while remaining age-appropriate and fun. Try keeping it simple to begin with, and then slowly increase the complexity of the drill as they improve in technique. By developing these skills, your quarterbacks will gain confidence as well as develop into valuable assets on the field.

For printable drills and so much more shop at Flag Football with Coach D, and consider our complete coach bootcamp.