linebacker
n. countablen. a defensive player in American football who stands just behind the front line. Their job is to stop runners or tackle the quarterback.
n. a defensive player positioned immediately behind the line of scrimmage. Primary responsibilities include defending against the run, covering short passes, and rushing the quarterback.
The linebacker tackled the runner before he could score.
The team's star linebacker is known for his ability to read the offense and stop plays before they develop.
A versatile linebacker must possess both the physical strength to shed blocks from offensive linemen and the lateral speed required to shadow agile tight ends across the middle of the field.
From line + backer.
Commonly used in the context of American or Canadian football.