Background: Jan 1, 2023; Atlanta, Georgia, USA; Arizona Cardinals defensive end J.J. Watt (99) tackles Atlanta Falcons running back Tyler Allgeier (25) during the second half at Mercedes-Benz Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Dale Zanine
If you ever want to teach fundamental tackling —- check out JJ Watt’s technique.
The first and primary consideration involves the tackler’s “pad level”. The general rule is “the lower the pad level, the better” because it will give the tackler a better path to the ball carrier’s legs.
Look at JJ Watt’s pad level in the photo above. Notice too how he is keeping his” head up” and thereby is not making the classic mistake of “dipping” the head.