2026 NFL Draft - Off-Ball Linebackers

A box player who plays behind the defensive line, usually makes defensive calls.

In a 3-4 defense is considered an EDGE/blitzing player, in a 4-3 defense is a coverage and/or run-stuffing player.

An off-ball linebacker is usually the smaller of the two middle linebackers in a 3-4 system. These linebackers are more often in pass coverage and often act as the cleanup guy on running plays as opposed to the linebacker that makes first contact.

A hybrid role for a player who will be expected to both rush the passer and play linebacker.

Middle linebacker whose primary responsibility is filling gaps against the run; for 3-4 teams, the strong-side middle linebacker.

(3-4 teams only) Weak-side middle linebacker whose primary responsibility is filling gaps against the run.

Strong-side linebacker, primarily a run-stuffing backer.

Weak-side linebacker, sometimes called the 'run-and-chase' linebacker whose primary role is split between defending backs/receivers and stopping the run.

(Statistic) When the quarterback is tackled behind the line of scrimmage.

(Statistic) When the quarterback loses possession of the football as a result of defensive contact.

(Statistic) When a defensive player affects the quarterback in a meaningful way.

A (generally rectangular) area ranging vertically from the offensive tackles approximately 5-8 yards.

The side of the offensive formation that does not include a tight end.

The side of the offensive formation that includes a tight end.