Relationships between drop jump–derived variables and sprint and change-of-direction performance in collegiate football players

Introduction: Collegiate football performance is characterized by repeated sprinting and frequent changes of direction, imposing high neuromuscular demands related to explosive force production and rapid movement execution. Objective: The primary objective of this study was to examine the relationships between variables derived from the drop jump test and multidimensional sprint and change-of-direction performance in male collegiate football players. Methodology: A cross-sectional correlational design was applied with thirty-five male collegiate football players. Participants completed a drop jump assessment, sprint tests over multiple distances, and several standardized change-of-direction tests. Correlation analyses and explanatory regression models were conducted. Results: Jump height was identified as the primary explanatory indicator of maximal sprint performance over forty meters. In contrast, the reactive strength index consistently explained performance across multiple change-of-direction tasks. No significant relationships were observed with short-distance sprint performance. Discussion: These findings are consistent with previous research indicating distinct neuromuscular demands for sprinting and directional changes. Conclusions: The results demonstrated task-specific relationships between drop jump variables and football performance. Jump height was associated with maximal sprint capability, while the reactive strength index was more strongly related to change-of-direction performance. Task-specific interpretation of neuromuscular assessments is essential.