Youth Inc. Recommends: Five Developmental Resources for Running Backs

Running back is one of football’s most versatile and demanding positions. A great back has to cut sharply, protect the ball, read the defense, catch passes, and hold their own in pass protection. These five resources — including drills, breakdowns, and NFL insights — will help you sharpen every part of your game.

Football Running Back Drills

What it is: A roundup of essential RB drills for footwork, balance, and explosiveness, complete with visual descriptions.

Why we like it: The layout is clean and the focus is sharp — each drill targets a key part of the RB skillset. A great starting point for players or coaches building out their practice routine.

Running Back Drills to Build Speed & Power

What it is: A performance-focused list of drills that emphasize lower-body explosiveness and running mechanics.

Why we like it: VertiMax drills lean toward speed and power development, perfect for backs who want to be more explosive through the hole or improve long-speed without losing agility.

RB Drills with Saquon Barkley

What it is: A drill session with Saquon Barkley demonstrating agility and ball security work, including the one-cut cone drill, jump cuts, high-knee bags, and more.

Why we like it: Saquon’s drills are explosive, but also practical. If you’re looking to combine smooth feet with secure hands, this session is a must-watch.

RB Drills with Christian McCaffrey

What it is: A footwork- and timing-focused workout with Christian McCaffrey, featuring ladder drills, cutting drills, and transitional movements.

Why we like it: CMC brings elite quickness and balance to every rep — and these drills show you how he builds it. Great for RBs who want to stay light, fluid, and reactive.

Dalvin Cook NFL Film Session

What it is: A high-level breakdown of RB instincts, contact creation, and pass protection with Dalvin Cook.

Why we like it: Dalvin talks through how he reads leverage, creates angles, and absorbs contact — and he doesn’t skip the blocking responsibilities. It’s a mental and physical roadmap for playing the position at the highest level.