Updated October 26, 2026 · 8 min read
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Short on time? Our picks
Best overallGoSports Football Throwing Net4.7★, 3,700+ ratingsCheck price on Amazon →
Most targetsZELUS Throwing Net with 5 Pocketsknotless nettingCheck price on Amazon →Every quarterback needs reps, and every rep needs a receiver. In the backyard that usually means a tired parent or a younger sibling chasing overthrown balls into the bushes. A football throwing net changes that. It gives a quarterback clear targets, catches every throw and lets them practice accuracy and footwork alone, for as long as they want.
This guide picks the best football throwing nets for quarterbacks, kids and flag football players. We also cover the right net size, how far to throw by age, QB net drills and the throwing mechanics that make practice count.
Best overall
GoSports Football Throwing Net with Target Pockets
A quarterback training net with target pockets that simulate prime receiving zones, available in 6 x 6 or 8 x 8 feet, with a carry bag.
With more than 3,700 ratings and a 4.7★ average, buyers praise the easy assembly, fun, training value and stability, and say it suits kids well.

Quick answer: the best football throwing nets
- Best overallGoSports Football Throwing Net · 4.7★, 3,700+ ratings
- Most targetsZELUS Throwing Net with 5 Pockets · knotless netting
- Best valueZonlolo 6 x 6 ft Throwing Net · 3 target pockets
Pick by player

GoSports Throwing Net
The most proven net, in two sizes, with pockets placed where receivers catch the ball.
The best football throwing nets, reviewed

GoSports Football Throwing Net with Target Pockets
You need this if: you want a proven, easy-to-set-up net for quarterback accuracy practice.
- Sizes6 x 6 ft or 8 x 8 ft
- TargetsPockets in prime receiving zones
- ExtrasCarry bag
- Rating4.7★ (3,700+ ratings)
Why we recommend it: The pockets sit where receivers usually catch the ball, so every throw trains real game accuracy. Buyers love how quickly it sets up, how much fun it is, how stable it stands and how well it suits kids. The two sizes let you match it to your space and player.
Keep in mind: Choose the size carefully: the 8 x 8 is better for older players and longer throws, while the 6 x 6 is easier to store and move.

ZELUS Football Throwing Net with 5 Target Pockets
You need this if: you want more targets to practice throws at different heights and angles.
- Size6 x 6 ft
- Targets5 pockets
- Netting7-ply knotless polyester
- Rating4.7★ (220+ ratings)
Why we recommend it: Five pockets let a quarterback practice high, low and side throws, and the knotless netting reinforced with Oxford cloth is built to take repeated throws. Buyers mention durability, easy assembly and how fun it is.
Keep in mind: It has far fewer reviews than the GoSports net.

Zonlolo 6 x 6 ft Football Throwing Net
You need this if: you want an affordable net for a younger player or casual backyard practice.
- Size6 x 6 ft
- Targets2 upper pockets, 1 smaller center pocket
- SetupTool-free
- Rating4.6★ (170+ ratings)
Why we recommend it: A simple, quick-to-set-up net with three targets, including a smaller center pocket for a real accuracy challenge. Buyers mention quality, easy assembly and how it helps accuracy.
Keep in mind: Durability gets some mixed comments, so it suits younger players and lighter use better than hard-throwing high schoolers.
Comparison table
| Net | Size | Targets | Rating |
|---|---|---|---|
| GoSports | 6 x 6 or 8 x 8 ft | Receiving-zone pockets | 4.7★ (3,700+) |
| ZELUS | 6 x 6 ft | 5 pockets | 4.7★ (220+) |
| Zonlolo | 6 x 6 ft | 3 pockets | 4.6★ (170+) |
What size throwing net do you need?
A 6 x 6 ft net suits most kids and youth players. It is easier to move and store, and the targets are at a good height for smaller quarterbacks. An 8 x 8 ft net gives a bigger frame and more forgiveness for older players throwing from longer distances. If you have space and a teenage quarterback, the larger net is worth it.
How far should you throw at a net?
| Player | Starting distance | Goal distance |
|---|---|---|
| Young kids (6 to 9) | About 5 to 8 yards | 10 yards |
| Youth (10 to 13) | About 8 to 12 yards | 15 yards |
| High school | About 10 to 15 yards | 20 yards or more |
Start close enough to hit the pockets often, then move back. Accuracy first, distance second. If your player needs a ball sized for their age, see our guide to the best footballs for kids.
QB throwing net drills
1. Target calls
Call a pocket before every throw. Count hits out of 10 and track it each week.
2. Three-step drop
Take a three-step drop, set your feet and throw to the called pocket. This trains footwork and timing together.
3. Rollout throws
Roll out to the left or right, square your shoulders to the net and throw on the move.
4. Quick release
Have a parent toss you the ball as if from a snap, then throw as quickly as possible with good form.
5. Knee throws
Kneel on one knee and throw to the net using only your upper body. Great for arm path and follow-through.
▶ QB Training Drill Every Quarterback Should TryA simple quarterback drill to use with a target. The video loads from YouTube only when you press play.
Throwing mechanics basics
- Grip: fingers on the laces, with a small gap between the palm and the ball.
- Stance: feet about shoulder width, front shoulder pointing at the target.
- Ball position: hold the ball high, near the chest, ready to throw.
- Step and rotate: step toward the target with the front foot and rotate the hips, then shoulders.
- Release and follow through: release with the elbow high, and finish with the thumb pointing down for a tight spiral.
Throwing nets for flag football
Flag football quarterbacks need quick, accurate throws, often on the move. A throwing net is perfect for practicing short passes and timing. Pair it with cones to set up routes for receivers. For gear, see our guide to the best flag football sets.
What to look for in a football throwing net
- Target pockets: more pockets give more variety; a small center pocket adds a real challenge.
- Size: 6 x 6 ft for most kids and youth, 8 x 8 ft for older players.
- Frame: a sturdy frame and good stakes keep the net upright after hard throws.
- Netting: knotless, multi-ply netting lasts longer.
- Portability: a carry bag and tool-free setup make it easy to take to the park or field.
Receivers can improve their hands at home too; see our guide to the best football gloves for receivers.
How to set up a throwing net
- Choose flat ground with space behind the net for missed throws.
- Assemble the frame and attach the net and pockets.
- Stake it down if stakes are included, especially in wind.
- Measure your throwing distance and mark it with a cone.
- Make sure there are no windows, cars or people behind the net.
A 20-minute quarterback practice plan
- Warm-up (4 min): arm circles, light jog and short, easy throws.
- Knee throws (3 min): 10 throws from one knee, focusing on a high elbow and follow-through.
- Footwork (5 min): three-step and five-step drops, throwing to called pockets.
- On the move (4 min): rollouts left and right, throwing on the run.
- Pressure round (4 min): 10 throws for score; a hit in a small pocket counts double.
Record the pressure-round score each session. Watching the number climb is a great motivator for young quarterbacks.
Throwing a tighter spiral
A wobbly ball usually comes from gripping too hard, throwing with a low elbow or not following through. Loosen the grip slightly, keep the elbow at or above shoulder height and let the ball roll off the index finger last, finishing with the thumb pointing down. Practicing short throws with perfect spirals is more useful than long throws that wobble.
Using a throwing net as a team
Coaches often set up a net at one station during practice. Quarterbacks rotate through for target work while receivers run routes at other stations. For bigger groups, two nets side by side keep everyone moving. Receivers can use the net too, practicing quick throws after a catch or two-point conversion passes.
Throwing nets for younger kids
For kids under 10, a throwing net turns practice into a game. Give points for each pocket and let them try to beat their own score. Use a youth-size or junior football that fits their hand, keep distances short so they succeed often, and stop while they are still having fun.
How long do throwing nets last?
With normal backyard use, a good net lasts several seasons. Sun, rain and wind wear netting and pockets out fastest, so take the net down or store it when not in use and check the pockets for small tears before they grow.
Protecting a young throwing arm
Throwing a football is easier on the arm than pitching a baseball, but young arms still need care. Warm up before throwing, focus on good mechanics instead of throwing hard, and keep sessions to a reasonable number of throws with rest days between heavy sessions. Stop if your child has shoulder or elbow pain.
Got questions?
Frequently asked questions
What is the best football throwing net?
The GoSports Football Throwing Net is our top pick. It has target pockets in prime receiving zones, comes in 6 x 6 or 8 x 8 feet and has more than 3,700 ratings.
What size football throwing net should I buy?
A 6 x 6 ft net suits most kids and youth players. Older players throwing from longer distances may prefer 8 x 8 ft.
How far should a kid throw at a football net?
Young kids can start about 5 to 8 yards away, youth players about 8 to 12 yards. Move back as accuracy improves.
Do throwing nets help quarterbacks?
Yes. They give clear targets and catch every throw, so quarterbacks can practice accuracy, footwork and release alone.
Can I use a football throwing net for other sports?
Many families also use them for soccer shooting practice, baseball throwing and frisbee, though they are designed for footballs.
How do I keep a throwing net from blowing over?
Use the included stakes, set it on flat ground and add sandbags to the frame in windy weather.
What drills can I do with a throwing net?
Target calls, three-step drops, rollout throws, quick-release throws and kneeling throws are all great drills.
Is a throwing net good for flag football?
Yes. It is ideal for practicing quick, short, accurate passes, which are key in flag football.
How we chose
We researched football throwing nets on Amazon in October 2026 and compared ratings, the number of reviews, size, target design and what buyers say about setup, stability and durability. We chose one clear net for each type of player. Prices and sizes change often, so check the current listing before you buy.












