linebacker

Any of the defensive players forming a second line of defense behind the players on the line of scrimmage.

The defensive players who are in position behind the defensive linemen and in front of the safeties and cornerbacks and whose principal responsibilities are to tackle runners and to defend against shorter passes.

(American football) the position of a defensive football player who plays close behind the line of scrimmage.

A defensive football player who takes a position close behind the linemen.