Edge rusher
Edge rushers line up on the outside of the line. They are defensive ends in a 4-3 and often outside linebackers in a 3-4. Their main job is to get to the quarterback.
What he does
- Rushes the passer around the tackle on the outside
- Sets the edge on runs, so the ball carrier cannot get around the end
- Chases plays from behind and tackles runners who cut back
- Drops into coverage on a zone blitz
- Works with the tackle on stunts
On running plays
Keeps his outside shoulder free and holds the edge so the play stays inside, where other defenders can reach it. If he loses the edge, the runner gets around him.
On passing plays
Uses speed to get around the tackle, a bull rush to push him back, or a spin to cross over. Most sacks and pressures come from this position.
What makes a good one
Burst off the snap, flexibility to bend around the tackle, hand strength and a good set of moves.
How he lines up
Edge rushers line up in a wide-nine technique far outside the tackle, in a seven-technique on the tackle’s shoulder, or standing up as an outside linebacker. A wide alignment gives a path for a speed rush, while a tighter one helps against runs. Many teams move their best rusher to different spots so the offense cannot slide its protection toward him.
Techniques and common mistakes
Key techniques are the speed rush with a dip of the shoulder, the bull rush, the spin and the inside counter, along with strong hand placement to fight off a tackle. Common mistakes are rushing too far upfield past the quarterback, which opens a lane for him to step up, losing contain on a quarterback run, and relying on one move that the tackle has learned to stop.
Animated play
Blue circles are the team with the ball. X marks the other team. The yellow oval is the ball.
- The edge rusher lines up on the outside of the defensive line, wider than the tackles.
- At the snap he runs a wide, fast path around the offensive tackle and bends back toward the quarterback.
- He tries to arrive before the quarterback throws. If he does, he can sack him.
- A good rusher also hits at the ball and strips it out of the quarterback’s hand. That is a strip-sack, and it can turn the game.