linebacker

noun

line·​back·​er ˈlīn-ˌba-kər 

plural linebackers

: a football player on the defending team who typically lines up behind the defensive linemen

They play tight defense in the secondary, and linebackers fill gaps on the run and are expected to defend the pass.

—Jerry McDonald

Today, a blitzing linebacker is just as likely to get a sack because no one blocked him as he is on a great pass rush move.

—Tim Green

Examples of linebacker in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web

Quarterbacks, running backs, wide receivers, tight ends, offensive linemen, defensive linemen, linebackers, defensive backs and special teams have already been announced. — Todd Holcomb, AJC.com, 31 July 2026

While big-money additions like outside linebacker Jaelan Phillips and inside linebacker Devin Lloyd are expected to excel, the Panthers have also seen some young defenders step up in the passing game. — Mike Kaye july 31, Charlotte Observer, 31 July 2026

Prior to the team period, Overshown spent a good amount of one-on-one time with linebackers coach Scott Symons on drop coverage technique. — Nick Harris, Fort Worth Star-Telegram, 30 July 2026

On the first day of his 14th and likely final training camp, Chiefs tight end Travis Kelce broke downfield into a corner route rather well-covered by linebackers Nick Bolton and Drue Tranquill. — Vahe Gregorian july 30, Kansas City Star, 30 July 2026

Word History

First Known Use

1931, in the meaning defined above

Rhymes for linebacker

• firecracker
• acker
• backer
• blacker
• cracker
• hacker
• lacquer
• packer
• slacker
• stacker
• thacker
• tracker

Kids Definition

linebacker

noun

line·​back·​er ˈlīn-ˌbak-ər 

: a football player on the defending team whose usual position is a short distance in back of the line of scrimmage