How to Throw Deep Like Drew Brees

One of the most exciting plays in football is the deep throw or, to use football parlance, the "bomb." Quarterback Drew Brees utilizes this weapon to rattle opposing defenses. He uses angles and timing to complete long passes even though he doesn't possess one of the stronger arms in the NFL.

Instructions

Difficulty: Challenging

1. Practice throwing the football with your eyes closed. Drew Brees struggled his first two years in the league, but then began to practice throwing the ball to receivers with his eyes closed. He credits this in helping his ability to complete deep passes.
2. Study the playbook and know where the receivers are on the field at all times. Drew Brees is shorter than the average NFL quarterback, so it can be hard for him to see over his offensive lineman on a deep pass. Brees studies the plays so that he can throw a deep without ever seeing the receiver. Deep throws are about anticipation because you must throw the deep pass before the receiver finishes his route.
3. Put significant loft on the throw and let the receiver run underneath the deep pass. The deep pass is less about accuracy and more about allowing the receiver to make a play on the ball. Drew does not have the strongest arm, but he understands this concept. His throws are deep but with enough air underneath it so that the receiver can adjust to the pass.
4. Move around on the field until the receiver can move deep down the field. The deep throw takes time to execute and sometimes a quarterback must avoid oncoming defenders to buy enough time to get the pass off. Brees possesses incredible field awareness, which he uses to elude defenders until he can complete the deep throw.