Keys to a Linebacker's Stance
Set the tone for a great play
It all starts with the stance.
When it comes to a Linebacker’s stance, I look at three key things:
The Linebacker must be comfortable in their stance
Their stance must allow them to not have any false steps
Their stance must allow for great vision
If a player checks those boxes, I typically leave their stance alone.
But if a player is struggling — or if you’re teaching a stance from scratch — here are a few thoughts.
Feet
Linebackers use a balanced stance.
Their feet should be about shoulder width apart, maybe slightly wider.
Weight is slightly forward on their toes.
A Linebacker needs to be ready to take a first step in any direction.
Because of this, they should be as balanced as possible in their stance.
Knees/Hips/Shoulders
The Linebacker’s knees are slightly bent in an athletic position.
Their hips are low and rolled slightly forward.
The Linebacker’s shoulders are square with great pad level.
Hands
This one is debatable.
I personally don’t have a preference when it comes to a Linebacker’s hand position in their stance.
Some like to keep their hands up and ready.
Others prefer to have their hands dangling low.
Some rest their hands on their thighs or knees.
(I don’t mind the hands resting on the thighs as long as they’re not pushing too much weight onto their thighs. I find this causes a slow first step.)
Overall, whatever’s comfortable.
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Eyes
A Linebacker’s stance should allow for great vision.
The Linebacker’s eyes should be fixed on their READ.
There are a few schools of thought as to how a Linebacker should read a play. But however you coach it, the Linebacker should have their eyes in the right place as the play starts.
Final Thoughts
There you have it.
A few simple keys for a good, comfortable stance.
Like I said, I try not to over-coach the stance unless the player is having issues.
A good stance sets the tone for a great play.
All the best,
Jon Svec
Defensive Coordinator
St. Francis Xavier University
X-Men Football
Email: jsvec@stfx.ca
Twitter: @jonsvecx
Take a DEEP DIVE into Linebacker fundamentals with the Linebacker Toolbox 2.0.