The two biggest things to understand when you're tracking the ball as a defensive back is your position on the field and understanding that once the ball is in the air you become the receiver. Too many young defensive backs worry about the receiver catching it or what the receiver is doing instead of focusing on what they should be doing. Just go out and make the play yourself, don't worry about him. Know where the ball is and attack it. Put yourself in position to bat it or catch it and make the play.
Antonio CromartieFigure out where you are on the field. If you're past 15 or so yards, the ball is going down the field. When you're in great position, you're able to control the receiver.
Antonio CromartieI miss football, but I'm not done. I'm not retired or anything, I just know my worth. Once it's clear that the NFL isn't considering your worth, then you get a better picture of what's really important and what you should put your energy and time into.
Antonio CromartieMy all-time favorite interception was picking off Peyton Manning back in 2007, the one-hander down the sideline.
Antonio CromartieI play a lot of basketball and racquetball, as they're both great for your feet and hand eye coordination. Other drills can help as well, such as simply catching a football in distant positions from different heights and velocities.
Antonio CromartieYou need to just understand where the ball is and how to use your body. Timing your jump the right way is crucial. Learn how to use your body to shield the receiver and box him out, again, much like a rebound. Trying to beat a receiver to a ball can be a lot like you're posting him up. Rebounding is great practice because you can employ those skills - body position, leverage, timing - a lot more than you might in a football game or practice if the quarterback doesn't look your way.
Antonio Cromartie