Wide Receivers - The Importance of a Good Release

One of the greatest advantages a wide receiver can have is his ability to instantly attack the defensive back. Every play that convinces a defensive back that a wide receiver is coming quickly off the ball, running hard, and threatening to go deep is a play that the offensive player has control over.

When observing great receivers, you'll have noticed that they exhibit a quick release off the line of scrimmage the instant the ball is snapped. They are never late and their first stride takes them up-field, attacking the defensive back.

You may be using either the upright two-point stance or the three-point stance with a hand on the ground. No matter which stance you use, your ability to get an instant start is crucial.

Your release should have the very same intensity and quickness on a running play as it does on a pass play. Many young receivers will fall into the trap of thinking they can take the play off when that play is going to the opposite side of the field. These receivers don't realize they're tipping the defense off that they aren't the primary receiver or that a run isn't coming to their side.

Starting with a comfortable two- or three-point stance with your weight on your front foot and a good forward shoulder lean, you should release by rolling over your front foot and taking a good stride with your back foot up the field. Get your arms pumping and get into a good running motion, covering as much ground as you can as quickly as you can.