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

Rising senior linebacker Brandon Sims scored on a 60-yard pick-6. —Chris Hays, The Orlando Sentinel, 17 May 2025

Defensive coordinator Terrell Williams, defensive line coach Clint McMillan, inside linebackers coach Zak Kuhr, cornerbacks coach Justin Hamilton and safeties coach Scott Booker are among the Titans ties with the 2025 Patriots. —Oliver Thomas, Forbes.com, 16 May 2025

Baylor also is bringing in Alabama transfer receiver Kobe Prentice and Florida International linebacker Travion Barnes, who was voted Conference USA Defensive Player of the Year. —Steven Johnson, Fort Worth Star-Telegram, 16 May 2025

Guest speakers include former San Diego Chargers linebacker Donnie Edwards, co-founder of Best Defense Foundation, serving veterans. —Linda McIntosh, San Diego Union-Tribune, 16 May 2025

Word History

First Known Use

1893, 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