35 Under 35 Presents | Tyler Allen | QB Movement Drills
April 2, 2025
Tyler Allen, a member of the 2025 AFCA 35 Under 35 class, spent the 2024 season coaching the Quarterbacks at West Virginia. Allen was elevated to QB coach after serving the prior two seasons as an Offensive Analyst. Allen has also spent time on staff at LSU, Troy, Jax State, and Rice, working with both QBs and the Offensive Line.
Key Pocket Movement Drills
1. Flat Down the Line Escape
This drill teaches quarterbacks to move laterally while maintaining rhythm and vision downfield. By improving foot placement and body control, quarterbacks can efficiently escape edge pressure and find passing lanes.
2. Depth Escape
The Depth Escape drill helps quarterbacks reset their base while moving backward to avoid incoming rushers. This technique is essential for stepping away from pressure while keeping the play alive.
Drill Setup & Execution
To execute these pocket movement drills, you’ll need:
✅ Six cones to simulate a realistic pocket
✅ Three-step drop mechanics to establish a foundation
✅ Progression reads before initiating movement
✅ Pocket weaving techniques for smooth foot transitions
✅ Coach-simulated defensive pressure to replicate game situations
✅ Various throw types to finish each rep with a pass
Key Coaching Points for QBs:
✔️ Maintain a strong base—avoid heel clicks
✔️ Keep eyes downfield to process coverage
✔️ Use the back foot to step during lateral movement
✔️ Execute a violent step-up to evade pressure while securing the football
Advanced Drill Variations
To enhance the effectiveness of these pocket movement drills, consider incorporating:
🔹 A pursuing defender to add game-like pressure
🔹 A coach’s clap cue for quick reaction throws
🔹 Number recognition drills to train QB vision and decision-making
Why Pocket Movement Matters
Developing elite QB pocket movement is essential for success at any level of play. These drills improve footwork, awareness, and escape ability, giving quarterbacks the tools to confidently handle defensive pressure. Whether you’re a coach training young athletes or a quarterback looking to refine your mechanics, implementing these drills will elevate your pocket presence.
For more information about the AFCA, visit www.AFCA.com. For more interesting articles, check out The Insider and subscribe to our weekly email.
If you are interested in more in-depth articles and videos, please become an AFCA member. You can find out more information about membership and specific member benefits on the AFCA Membership Overview page. If you are ready to join, please fill out the AFCA Membership Application.
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Tyler Allen, a member of the 2025 AFCA 35 Under 35 class, spent the 2024 season coaching the Quarterbacks at West Virginia. Allen was elevated to QB coach after serving the prior two seasons as an Offensive Analyst. Allen has also spent time on staff at LSU, Troy, Jax State, and Rice, working with both QBs and the Offensive Line.
Key Pocket Movement Drills
1. Flat Down the Line Escape
This drill teaches quarterbacks to move laterally while maintaining rhythm and vision downfield. By improving foot placement and body control, quarterbacks can efficiently escape edge pressure and find passing lanes.
2. Depth Escape
The Depth Escape drill helps quarterbacks reset their base while moving backward to avoid incoming rushers. This technique is essential for stepping away from pressure while keeping the play alive.
Drill Setup & Execution
To execute these pocket movement drills, you’ll need:
✅ Six cones to simulate a realistic pocket
✅ Three-step drop mechanics to establish a foundation
✅ Progression reads before initiating movement
✅ Pocket weaving techniques for smooth foot transitions
✅ Coach-simulated defensive pressure to replicate game situations
✅ Various throw types to finish each rep with a pass
Key Coaching Points for QBs:
✔️ Maintain a strong base—avoid heel clicks
✔️ Keep eyes downfield to process coverage
✔️ Use the back foot to step during lateral movement
✔️ Execute a violent step-up to evade pressure while securing the football
Advanced Drill Variations
To enhance the effectiveness of these pocket movement drills, consider incorporating:
🔹 A pursuing defender to add game-like pressure
🔹 A coach’s clap cue for quick reaction throws
🔹 Number recognition drills to train QB vision and decision-making
Why Pocket Movement Matters
Developing elite QB pocket movement is essential for success at any level of play. These drills improve footwork, awareness, and escape ability, giving quarterbacks the tools to confidently handle defensive pressure. Whether you’re a coach training young athletes or a quarterback looking to refine your mechanics, implementing these drills will elevate your pocket presence.
For more information about the AFCA, visit www.AFCA.com. For more interesting articles, check out The Insider and subscribe to our weekly email.
If you are interested in more in-depth articles and videos, please become an AFCA member. You can find out more information about membership and specific member benefits on the AFCA Membership Overview page. If you are ready to join, please fill out the AFCA Membership Application.
