Are You Training Your Young DB the "Right" Way?

Hey Defender of the Airways,

Every off-season, my inbox and phone start blowing up. Parents of 10, 11, and 12-year-olds reach out with the same request: "Coach, can you start training my son for the defensive back position?"

While I love the enthusiasm and I’m always down for a player wanting to master the craft, my answer often surprises them. In fact, I frequently discourage parents of young players from jumping straight into specialized, round-the-clock DB training.

It’s not because I don’t want to work with them. It’s because, after 20 years of coaching youth and high school ball—and seeing my own two sons go from the living room to the NFL—I’ve realized there is a much better use of your time during these "Golden Years" of development.

Why "More Drills" Isn't Always the Answer

Between the ages of 10 and 12, the goal isn't just to build a better backpedal; it’s to build a better athlete and a smarter student of the game. If you focus only on the "grind" too early, you risk your player flaming out before they even hit high school.

In my latest video, Developing Young DBs Ages 11–12 the Right Way, I break down the specific blueprint I used in my own home and with my most successful players to ensure they don't just play the position, but dominate it long-term.

What We’re Covering This Week:

• The "Offensive" Secret: Why the best defensive players actually spend their time studying the other side of the ball.

• The Multi-Sport Advantage: I share the two specific sports that I believe are non-negotiable for future DBs (one might surprise you!).

• Cognitive Domination: How learning an instrument or a second language can actually make your son a more "intelligent" player on the gridiron.

• The Social Factor: Why a "business-only" mindset at age 11 is a recipe for disaster in a college locker room.

Stop Training, Start Developing

If you want your son to be more than just a kid who can run through some cones—if you want him to have the IQ, the athleticism, and the genuine hunger to compete at the highest levels—you need to change your approach now while you still have control.

The future belongs to the athletes who can think fast and adapt.

Watch the full video here to see exactly how to structure these critical years for your young DB.

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Confidence in playing DB comes with knowing what to do. Get all the know how with my book 101 DB Tips, the ultimate technical reference guide for every movement, eye key, and playmaking secret you need to dominate the secondary.

Get the elite mentorship and film-study insights you need to raise your game by joining the All Eyes DB Camp Member’s Area, featuring over 400 exclusive technical breakdowns and drills.

Have questions or topics you’d like me to cover? Reply to this email or connect with me on social media—I’d love to hear from you!

Stay sharp, keep grinding, and always keep your eyes on the ball.

Chad Wilson
Founder, All Eyes DB Camp
@alleyesdbcamp on Instagram