linebacker

noun

line·​back·​er ˈlīn-ˌba-kər How to pronounce linebacker (audio)
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
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
All-Pro linebacker Zack Baun will play an important role against Mahomes, and rookie slot cornerback Cooper DeJean going against Kelce could determine the game. Rob Maaddi, Chicago Tribune, 9 Feb. 2025 Saleh was a defensive assistant in Seattle under Bradley and also was linebackers coach in Jacksonville when Bradley was the head coach. Jerry McDonald, The Mercury News, 7 Feb. 2025 Hall of Fame linebacker Dave Robinson, who played for those Green Bay title teams, said there's no question his Packers were undisputed world champs in pro football for three consecutive years. David K. Li, NBC News, 6 Feb. 2025 Special teams coordinator Ben Kotwica and linebackers coach Greg Manusky were also let go. Troy Renck, The Denver Post, 5 Feb. 2025 See all Example Sentences for linebacker 

Word History

First Known Use

1893, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of linebacker was in 1893

Dictionary Entries Near linebacker

Cite this Entry

“Linebacker.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/linebacker. Accessed 20 Feb. 2025.

Kids Definition

linebacker

noun
line·​back·​er ˈlīn-ˌbak-ər How to pronounce linebacker (audio)
: a football player on the defending team whose usual position is a short distance in back of the line of scrimmage

More from Merriam-Webster on linebacker

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