Playing defensive back is one of the most demanding positions on the football field – physical and mentally.

Every snap brings the potential for a big play, and whether it’s going up to knock away a pass or coming up to stop a run, defensive backs have to be able to do it all.

And just a few inches here or there are the difference between lining up for another down or getting into extra point formation.

Not every defensive back is blessed with extraordinary natural talent. Footwork, technique and field vision mix with instincts to put a player in the right place at the right time.

SEE ALSO: Check out all of USA Football’s Skills and Drills training videos for defensive backs

Gilbert Rodriguez Jr., the defensive coordinator at San Marcos (Texas) High School recently shared four areas on AFCAWeekly.com that coaches can help DBs get better.

• Eye progression. As Rodriguez says, “The eyes have to see it.” Speed and quickness are assets to covering ground but without knowing where to go and what angle to take, pure talent falls short. From presnap keys to initial postsnap movements, every defensive back must execute his assignment for the group to function correctly.
• Mind progression. Once the ball is snapped and the play has begun, a defensive back must instantly process what’s going on. Come up to stop the run? Drop back into zone? Every fraction of a second the defender waits to decide leads to more yards for the offense. Coaches can prepare their players for these quick decisions through film study and repetitions at practice.
• Footwork. Taking four steps instead of five can be the difference between making the play and watching the ball-carrier sprint past. Defensive backs must be able to control their bodies while moving their feet at a rapid pace. Slipping or being off-balance typically is a result of a player getting too wide at the base. Footwork drills and power angles are necessary skills the players can practice every day.
• Technique. Practiced and repeated, defensive backs should be able to execute their techniques in their sleep. Hands, feet, eyes, body … everything working together as one. This is the ability to execute while knowing how to move quickly and efficiently. Practice, practice, practice.