A motto to live by:  Learn from those who teach and teach those who want to learn.  No matter your position in the NFL, the more you know about yourself, your teammates, your opponents and their positions, the better you'll become.  Developing an attitude of teachability must be intentional and takes time.  Although their are innumerable sources for learning, technology has become an incredible tool for learning.  In today's NFL, all players must spend time watching film.  

A recent article in ESPN The Magazine entitled Watchmen by David Fleming does a good job highlighting the different position perspectives in reviewing game film.  DEFENSE:  Defensive linemen pick up on individual lineman techniques and tendancies to gain an edge in one-on-one battles.  Linebackers (especially the Mike) watch for keys that will give them the advantage in pursuit.  Defensive Backs look for tells from the QB and receivers to help uncover where the route and ball are going.  They look for play calling patterns, physical traits and other clues to enhance performance.  OFFENSE:  Quarterbacks watch more film than others because they make the most decisions in any game.  QBs are constantly evaluating the myriad clues- the depth of the strong safety, the split of the middle linebacker- to ensure the right play is called.  QBs must stay current on the ever-changing blitz packages, coverages and overal schemes in order to effictively exploit weaknesses.  Running backs get a feel for the natural ebs and flows in the line of scrimmage to sharpen instincts to find the crease as well as make the cuts to open field.  Tight Ends and other receivers watch for better reads on coverages.   They study DB techniques in man coverage and the zone pockets.  Receivers must be able to make reads and adjust routes to get open and aid the QB in getting them the ball.  Offensive linemen study the habits, formations and favorite stunts of a front seven so they can work together with their fellow mushrooms to cut off pass rushes and blitzes and open the lanes.

Each player should strive not only to learn their individual position but also that of their teammates and counterparts.  The more a player knows about every element of the game, the more effective they become.  There are many examples of receivers dominating LBs and DBs with the experience gained from playing D.  Same goes for Defensive players that have converted from an offensive position.  Players must continue to learn and grow or face premature retirement.

Everyone has heard the saying what comes around goes around.  This is a reality in life.  As such, never hesitate to pass your knowledge on to others in need of your assistance.  Learn from those that teach and teach those that want to learn.