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Quarterback Progression Reads Drill

Updated · Fact checked

A progression read checks receivers in a set order, first to third, and throws to the first one who is open. It turns the decision into a sequence you can rep instead of a guess you make under pressure.

The drill ties the eyes to the feet: every time the eyes move to the next receiver, the feet turn with them so you are always ready to throw.

Quarterback Academy - QB Progression - Route ProgressionAthlete Builder

How to do it

  1. Call the order

    Before the snap, name the read order: 1, 2, 3.

  2. Drop and look at 1

    Take the drop with the eyes on the first read; at the hitch, throw if it is open.

  3. Move eyes and feet

    If 1 is covered, move the eyes to 2 and turn the feet with them; then 3.

  4. Throw on time

    Throw to the receiver the coach signals as open, on the hitch, without staring down the first read.

Sets and reps
3 sets of 5 reps, 30 seconds rest.
Equipment
Football, Three receivers or three targets, A coach to signal the open receiver
Muscles and skills
Vision
Used in these 440 plans
Quarterback

Coaching cues and common mistakes

Coaching cues

  • Know the read order before the snap
  • Eyes and feet move together
  • Throw on time or move to the next

Common mistakes

  • Staring down the first read
  • Feet not matching the eyes

Running it with or without receivers

With receivers, a coach behind the quarterback signals which receiver is open after the drop. Without receivers, set three targets or three teammates holding up hands, and have a coach call or point to the open one at the top of the drop.

Name the order before every snap. If you can't say it, you can't read it.

Learn the concepts

A progression only works if you know what each route is doing. The 440 app's Playbook IQ shows the concept and the coverages it beats for any play you draw. The footwork comes from the drop back drill, and the full plan is on the quarterback training page.

FAQ

What is a progression read in football?

It is a passing read where the quarterback looks at receivers in a pre set order, usually from the first option to the third, and throws to the first one who is open.

More quarterback drills

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Sources

  1. ITP Glossary: Working Progressions (Dan Hatman, Sep 25, 2015), The Scouting Academy / Inside The Pylon
  2. How the progression passing game works (Bill Hewitt, 4/12/2018), USA Football
  3. Quarterback Drills with Coach Charlie Stubbs, American Football Quarterly (AFQ) Football Coaching

Program numbers (benchmarks, sets, reps, loads, protein targets) are 440 Football's own prescriptions. For athletes 13 and older; check with a physician or a registered dietitian before major training or diet changes.