All three phases of the game are important in football, and to Washington Commanders special teams coach Larry Izzo, it’s “everything.” A four-time Super Bowl champion, three with the New England Patriots as a player and one as a coach with the New York Giants, Izzo brings his unique perspective to D.C.
“Special teams are everything to me,” said Izzo. “We always tell the young guys; special teams are going to be the easiest path to the roster to carve out a role. In my career I learned, special teams, that’s how you eat.”
Feb 5, 2024; Ashburn, VA, USA; Washington Commanders head coach Dan Quinn speaks at his introductory press conference at Commanders Park.
Credit: Geoff Burke-USA TODAY Sports
Izzo carved out a major living as a special teams player for the Patriots after moving over from the Dolphins after the 2000 season. In his final year, Izzo played for the New York Jets before going into coaching. He was tenacious and tough and boy did he love to hit. And that’s exactly what he’s looking for as a coach.
“I am looking for dudes that want to run and hit,” Izzo continued. “They want to play fast and physical. That is how we are going to play. Then, guys that really want to be out there, understand their role, have a team-first mentality. Whatever they can do to help the team win, they are going to do it.”
Training camp begins on July 24 and you can bet that players who are hanging onto that last position spot will also be lining up to try their hand at special teams.
It could mean the difference between eating, and not.
Source link : https://athlonsports.com/nfl/washington-commanders/commander-country/news/washington-commanders-special-teams-coordinator-larry-izzo-coach-training-camp
Author :
Publish date : 2024-07-05 15:51:30
Copyright for syndicated content belongs to the linked Source.