CoolClinic

Developing Pass Protectors - Zach Strief

by COOL Clinic
Developing Pass Protectors - Zach Strief

Description

In this comprehensive clinic, former Super Bowl champion tunred offensive line coach Zach Strief breaks down the art and science of developing elite pass protectors. Drawing from his experience both as an NFL player and coach, Strief delivers a detailed blueprint for building technically sound, mentally tough linemen.

Strief begins by explaining the “why” behind his approach to pass protection and introduces a systematic teaching progression centered around the brace foot—a foundational concept that anchors the entire process. Through in-depth instruction and detailed drill work, he teaches how to build body control, master leverage angles (A, B, and C), and sequence strikes to counter a variety of rush threats.

The course also covers essential concepts like the “intersection,” redirect mechanics, set variations (1, 2, and 3 sets), and the nuances of rush recognition. Strief emphasizes the mental side of protection with strategies for training awareness and anticipation in high-pressure situations.

Packed with technical insights and on-field application, this course closes with a valuable conversation between Strief and renowned line coach Bob Wylie, offering even more perspective on the development of elite pass protectors.

Perfect for: Offensive line coaches at all levels looking to elevate their unit's pass protection with a proven, detail-oriented framework.

Lessons

The Coach

Zach Strief is in his second season as the Denver Broncos’ offensive line coach, where he has led one of the NFL’s most improved units. In 2023, Denver’s offensive line tied for the league lead in average pocket time (2.7 seconds) and maintained continuity with the same starting five for 16 of 17 games. Under Strief’s guidance, center Lloyd Cushenberry III allowed the fewest QB hurries among qualifying centers, and guard Quinn Meinerz ranked top five in pressures allowed.

Before joining the Broncos, Strief served as assistant offensive line coach for the New Orleans Saints (2021–22). During that span, the Saints ranked in the top 10 in yards per attempt and yards per play, while consistently producing 100-yard rushing games with Alvin Kamara and Taysom Hill.

A former seventh-round draft pick, Strief played 12 seasons with the Saints, starting 94 games and winning Super Bowl XLIV. From 2011–16, he anchored an offensive line that helped New Orleans lead the league in total offense and finish top three in scoring multiple times.

Strief’s transition from a high-level starter under Sean Payton to a rising offensive line coach has been marked by immediate success in player development and unit performance.

Ratings and Reviews (0)

This Course Includes


24 hours on-demand video
Streaming from mobile and TV
Lifetime access
Certificate of completion
100% money back guarantee

Course Info


Rating: (0)
Caterory: Football/Offensive Line
Duration:
Videos: 25