Definition

Noun: 1. A defensive football player positioned behind the defensive line: In American football, a linebacker is a defensive player whose primary starting position is directly behind the defensive linemen and in front of the defensive backfield (secondary). They are key players in stopping both running plays and passing plays. 2. The playing position itself: The term also refers to the specific defensive position on a football team, typically categorized as inside/middle linebacker (MLB) or outside linebacker (OLB).

Usage and Examples

• As a player:
  • The linebacker tackled the running back for a loss.
  • She is the team's best linebacker and a leader on defense.
• Referring to the position:
  • He has played the linebacker position since high school.
  • The coach is looking for speed at the linebacker spot.

Advanced Usage

• "Middle linebacker" (MLB): Often considered the defensive leader or "quarterback of the defense," responsible for calling plays and adjustments. They typically line up in the middle of the formation.
  • The middle linebacker read the play and shot through the gap to make the stop.
• "Outside linebacker" (OLB): Lines up on the edge of the defensive formation. Responsibilities can include setting the edge against the run, rushing the passer, or dropping into pass coverage.
  • The outside linebacker blitzed and sacked the quarterback.

Variants and Related Words

• Linebacker corps / linebacker unit: Refers to the group of linebackers on a team collectively.
  • The team's linebacker corps is young but very athletic.
• Linebacker-specific terms:
  • Coverage linebacker: A linebacker skilled in defending against passes.
  • Pass-rushing linebacker: A linebacker whose primary role is to pressure the quarterback.

Synonyms

• Defender: A general term for any defensive player.
• Linebacker-specific abbreviations: LB (general), MLB, OLB.

Related Phrases and Concepts

• "Blitz the linebacker": To send the linebacker on a charge toward the quarterback instead of having them cover or defend a zone.
  • On third down, they decided to blitz the linebacker.
• "Drop into coverage" (for a linebacker): Refers to a linebacker moving backward from the line of scrimmage to defend against a potential pass.
  • The linebacker dropped into coverage and intercepted the pass.

Noun

1. (American football) the position of a defensive football player who plays close behind the line of scrimmage
2. a defensive football player who takes a position close behind the linemen