Positions · offense, defense and special teams
American football positions: offense, defense and special teams explained
A practical guide to the main player roles in American football: quarterback, backs, receivers, offensive line, defensive front, linebackers, secondary and special teams.
Offense: quarterback, backs, receivers and line
The quarterback receives the snap and directs the offense. Running backs carry, catch and protect; wide receivers and tight ends are primary passing targets. The offensive line is built around the center, guards and tackles, whose main jobs are protecting the passer and creating running lanes.
Defense: line, linebackers and secondary
Defensive linemen attack blocks, pressure the quarterback and defend the run. Linebackers work behind them against runs, passes and blitz assignments. Cornerbacks and safeties form the secondary, covering receivers and helping prevent long gains.
Special teams: kickers, punters and returners
Special teams handle kickoffs, punts, field-goal and try attempts, and returns. Common specialist roles include placekicker, punter, long snapper and kick or punt returner. These units can decide field position and directly create scoring chances.
Positions are roles, not one fixed formation
A team has 11 players on the field, but the mix of positions changes by formation and situation. Offenses may use extra receivers or tight ends; defenses may shift between fronts such as 4-3 or 3-4 and add defensive backs in nickel packages. NFL and NCAA terminology overlaps, while exact personnel rules and packages can differ.