The Position Room - Developing the Modern Running Back - David Walker, Brandon Linney, Cory Colder, Juwan Lewis

On this episode of The Position Room, Former NFL Coach David Walker joins RB coaches, Juwan Lewis of Alabama State, Cory Colder of Furman University, and Brandon Linney of Presbyterian to explore what it takes to develop complete running backs in today’s game. From individualized development blueprints to decision-making under pressure, the coaches break down how to build players who can think, react, and perform within the system.

The discussion analyzes why every back needs a customized approach, how learning styles impact development, and why building trust in the position room is as important as technique work. The coaches unpack the traits that separate good backs from great ones: vision, leverage awareness, yards-per-carry efficiency, and the ability to win with speed, quickness, and elusiveness.

Pass protection receives special attention, with technique, effort, and situational awareness emphasized as non-negotiables for earning trust on the field. The episode also highlights practice design, drill construction, player evaluation, and the importance of fitting talent into the right system instead of chasing raw ability.

For young coaches, the episode offers clear advice: invest in yourself, study the game holistically, and build a player-led room rooted in accountability and adaptability.

This is a masterclass in coaching the modern running back—focused not just on carries, but on complete player development.

Chapters

• Foundational Plans for Player Development

• Individualized Coaching and Learning Styles

• Embracing Roles and Building Trust

• Preparing for Depth and Special Teams Impact

• Decision-Making and Vision in the Run Game

• Pad Level, Angles, and Playing Behind Your Pads

• The Three Ways to Make Defenders Miss

• Measuring Efficiency Through Yards Per Carry

• Evaluating Fit Within the System

• Pass Protection Technique and Toughness

• Practice Design and Position-Specific Drills

• Advice and Growth for Young Coaches

Connect on X:

Keith Grabowski: ⁠@CoachKGrabowski⁠

David Walker: ⁠@CoachWalk33⁠

Juwan Lewis: ⁠@Coach_Jlew⁠

Cory Colder: @⁠CoachColder⁠

Brandon Linney: ⁠@CoachLinney

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