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

Now, the team has made a decision that signals another end-of-an-era moment, as the Patriots have released middle linebacker Ja'Whaun Bentley — three-time captain and Super Bowl winner. —Ron Estes, MSNBC Newsweek, 29 Mar. 2025

Nico was a linebacker for Tulane and continued his career with the Washington Commanders. —Avalon Hester, People.com, 29 Mar. 2025

The 49ers are looking at linebackers in the upcoming draft, and a few worthy veterans remain on the free-agent market. —Matt Barrows, New York Times, 28 Mar. 2025

Redshirt junior Joey Gerlach of Woodbury appears ready to provide depth at inside linebacker. —Andy Greder, Twin Cities, 26 Mar. 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