What do i need to become a Fullback

Question
Dear Coach,

I am currently a Freshman at Strake Jesuit. I would like to now what level i need to be on concerning speed( referring to time running a 40) and strength ( referring to how much i should be benching, squatting, and power cleaning) wise to be at least a Jv fullback next year.I would also like to know in your opinion how much height matters because i am currently 5 foot 7 inches tall.

Your advice would be deeply appreciated.Thanks.

Answer
Will -

Thanks for writing.  Well, unfortunately there are no concrete answers to your questions.  There really isnt a "standard" to how tall or strong or fast a fullback needs to be.  However, there are a few things a fullback DOES need to be... So how about if I go and let you in on those, so you can decide what the best way to train will be.  Ok?

First and foremost, in most offenses, the fullback is the lead blocker for the main ball carrier.  So he must be a solid blocker.  To be this, you must have the ability to get through the hole, hit the defender, and move him out of the way.  This takes some speed, and a good amount of strength.  One time you might be hitting a DB, but the next time you might be asked to block a DT.  SO you have to be able to hit and block maybe the biggest guy on the defense.  Can you do that now?  If not, then there is a sign that size and power is something you need to work on.

Also as a fullback, you will need to protect the passer.  This calls for the same skills and abilities as lead blocking calls for.  So for this, ask yourself the same questions as above.

Finally, in a lot of offenses, the FB will be an outlet receiver on play action passes.  SO you will need the skills to get open in a pass route, catch the ball, then run with the ball for extra yards.  This requires good, reliable hands, some speed, and running ability.  Can you currently catch most balls thrown at you, from all angles, both standing still or while running?  After you catch the ball, can you run with it, break tackles, make defenders miss, and not fumble?  These are important as well.

Hopefully you see what I am getting at here.  It really isnt size, speed, or strength per say that will make a difference.  But it is the skills and abilities you have that will make the difference.  Now dont get me wrong, getting bigger, stronger, and faster will help you a lot.  But only if you are able to use it to your advantage.  Right now, you are tall enough to do the job.  Most FBs in the HS are about your height, maybe a little taller.  Weight wise, just get to a good playing weight, that will allow you to be an effective blocker, but still have speed.  If you get too big and slow, you wont have the speed you need to be an all around FB.

Hopefully this helps you out.  Just remember what I wrote here.  It isnt the physical aspects of BODY that matter, its the physical aspects of you GAME that matter.  The shortest, slowest FB in the league might be the best if he is the most effective lead blocker and pass receiver, right?  See what I mean?  Just concentrate on the skills you need and you should have no problem with the rest.  You will find that desire and technique are a FBs 2 best friends.  You have to have the heart to do the dirty work each play while getting very lille recognition.  That is not easy.  Also, if you have good technique, that will help overcome a lack of size or strength.  So concentrate on those and you will be fine.

Best wishes

Coach Perl