What Is a Linebacker's Job in Football?

Linebackers are a vital part of a football team's defensive formation and are typically lined up between the defensive line and the secondary. Unlike other defensive players who have limited and specific responsibilities, linebackers must be versatile and capable of defending both the run and the pass. Most football defenses have three linebackers; some use four.

  1. Call the Plays

    • Linebackers, especially the middle linebacker in a three-backer set, are usually responsible for relaying the defensive plays from the coaches and making sure all defenders are positioned properly. If there are changes to the defense that need to be made based on the alignment of the offense, it is generally a linebacker who communicates these changes and gets the other players lined up properly.

    Cover the Tight End or Running Back

    • In many instances, tight ends block. On some plays, however, they come off the line and run a pass route. Sometimes running backs release and run a short pass route. In most cases, it is the job of the linebackers to cover the tight end or running back who runs a pass route. If the pass is completed, a linebacker should be close enough to the recipient to tackle him immediately.

    Stop the Run

    • When a running play is called, it is the responsibility of the linebackers to recognize it and stop it as quickly as possible. Ideally, he will be able to penetrate the blocking of the offensive line and disrupt the play before it gets started. Linebackers must be sure tacklers who can minimize the yardage gained by a ball carrier.

    Blitz

    • Another responsibility of a linebacker is to blitz the quarterback. When a blitz is called, a linebacker rushes toward the quarterback and tries to tackle him behind the line of scrimmage before he can hand off the ball or throw a pass. Linebackers blitz through holes in the offensive line or around one of the ends.