Tackle Football for Coaches

Coaching the NFL Way to Play

Guiding young athletes through tackle football is about more than just X’s and O’s—it's an opportunity to mentor, build character, and foster a lifelong love of the game. Whether you’re new to coaching or a seasoned leader, your influence shapes players both on and off the field. 

As a tackle football coach, you set the foundation for how young athletes approach the game, both in skill and character. Coaching tackle football with NFL Way to Play principles means leading with intention—emphasizing tackling technique and strong fundamentals on every play. Your commitment to these values shapes not only your team’s on-field performance but also their confidence, discipline, and lifelong appreciation for the sport. 

• NFL Way to Play Coaching Resources: Learn how to apply the principles of the NFL Way to Play to help your players develop and succeed. 
• NFL Way to Play Playbook: From time management to drill selection, this resource provides a play-by-play look at coaching fundamentals.
• NFL Way to Play Awards: The weekly NFL Way to Play awards, fueled by Gatorade, celebrate the best examples of playing technique across all levels of football. 

Growing Tackle Football

As a coach, you have the unique ability to grow the game of tackle football in your community and help shape the next generation of athletes and leaders. Growing youth tackle football starts with creating a positive, welcoming environment: one where every player, regardless of background or ability level, can learn, develop, and thrive. 

Explore tips on how to grow youth participation in tackle football in your community, effectively communicate with parents, and more.  

 
Tackle Football Coaching Resources

Set yourself and your team up for success with tips, support, and practical strategies designed for every stage of your coaching journey. Explore these resources to inspire your players, enhance your leadership, and make a lasting impact on your football community. 

• Working With Parents: Strengthen relationships with families to build a supportive, positive team environment where every athlete can thrive. 
• Leading a Team: Discover powerful ways to motivate your athletes, foster teamwork, and create a winning culture on and off the field. 
• Coaching Career Development: Take your coaching to the next level with opportunities for professional growth, skill advancement, and leadership training. 
• Preparing for Emergencies: Help your team stay ahead of the game and be prepared for emergency situations or extreme weather.

High School Tackle Football: Learn from the Best of the Best

From championship-level teams to coaches recognized for demonstrating character, integrity, and leadership, learn from the best high school programs across the country: 

• High School Football Rankings: Check out the best of the best at the high school level. The High School Football America 100, powered by NFL Play Football, uses a proprietary algorithm to rank the top teams in the nation and crown an unofficial national champion at the end of the season. 
• Don Shula NFL High School Coach of the Year: Named after Pro Football Hall of Famer Don Shula, this annual award recognizes the best in coaching at the high school level. 

Discover drills for your team and tutorials from top high school and NFL coaches across the country. Whether you’re searching for new tackling techniques, ways to develop your linemen, or inspirational stories to motivate your players, these video collections are here to support you and your team.