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

The former star inside linebacker for Oregon State had a 30-mile commute to his job. — Mirin Fader, New York Times, 11 Sep. 2026

The Los Angeles Rams have emerged as Super Bowl favorites this year, putting together a formidable roster which includes linebacker Myles Garrett, defensive end Aaron Donald and returning quarterback Matt Stafford among several offensive pieces. — Mason Leib, ABC News, 9 Sep. 2026

Devin Lloyd might be the best coverage linebacker in the NFL. — Alex Zietlow, Charlotte Observer, 9 Sep. 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