Master Your Technique – Mike Waufle, Retired NFL Defensive Line Coach

Master Your Technique – Mike Waufle, Retired NFL Defensive Line Coach

In this segment from the 2022 COOL Clinic, Mike Waufle shares how his classroom was unique and then goes into the six components of get-off, which he repped every single day. While he focuses his presentation on defensive line play, there’s a lot to learn here about teaching your players, regardless of the position, to master their technique.

“The less you see, the quicker you get off.”
– Mike Waufle

Mike Waufle was a nearly 40-year veteran of the coaching profession. He coached throughout the college and NFL ranks, most recently serving as the defensive line coach for the Buffalo Bills. In the NFL, Coach Waufle also served as defensive line coach twice for the Oakland Raiders, St. Louis/Los Angeles Rams, and the New York Giants.

With the Giants, Coach Waufle won Super Bowl XLII. The play of his defensive line, which recorded five sacks, is credited as a decisive factor in defeating the New England Patriots and spoiling their opportunity for an undefeated season. On that team, Waufle coached future Hall of Famer Michael Strahan, as well as All-Pro players Justin Tuck and Osi Umenyiora. He has also coached Defensive Player of the Year and future Hall of Famer Aaron Donald.

A veteran of the United States Marine Corps, Waufle was awarded the Marine Corps “Lifetime Achievement Award” in 2009. Combined with his background in exercise physiology, Mike Waufle’s discipline for detail and understanding of the human body make him a master of technique.

In this episode, a segment from his presentation at the 2022 COOL Clinic, Mike Waufle teaches the mechanics of defensive line play. He shares how to teach for feet, hands, and hips, details of creating a pass rush plan, and the six components of get-off.

“Bone on bone. Flesh on flesh.”
– Mike Waufle

Watch Mike Wauffle’s Entire Presentation:

Defensive Line Body Mechanics (SAVE 25%)


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