What Does Edge Mean in Football? Explaining the Position

If you are a casual football fan, likelihood is that you might be unfamiliar with the time period "edge." What does it mean? Stick around as we explain the entirety.

Allison DeGrushe - Author

If you've got a basic understanding of American football, you are probably acquainted with phrases like huddle, touchdown, and fumble. However, there are specific words and phrases that can indisputably depart you stumped.

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For lovers, learning the huge array of phrases can be overwhelming; words like shotgun, flea flicker, blitz, and squib kick are only some examples of jargon that may be complicated. Among these terms, "edge" can be specifically perplexing.

On that note, what does "edge" mean in American football? Keep studying to find out!

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What does edge mean in football?

Simply put, the time period "edge" relates to the furthest level of the line of scrimmage. The phrase is alternately known as "edge rusher," which refers to (unofficial) positions on the box. Players regarded as edge rushers— generally defensive ends or out of doors linebackers — will line up furthest out of doors of the offensive formation.

In the sport, the edge performs a very important role; plus, the duties of the edge rushers are a very powerful.

According to Football Advantage, edge rushers will have to do the entirety they are able to to prevent the ball service from getting to the sideline all over working performs. Their primary job is to take on the participant or, as mentioned before, pressure them again inside of the box where most of the different defenders are waiting.

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As for passing plays, this is the place the edge rushers in point of fact get to polish — they line up wide on the field, which ensures they move one-on-one with either offensive tackles or tight ends and optimistically intercept the ball.

With these skills and duties, you can be questioning: Which gamers make excellent edge rushers? Well, it all is determined by the defensive formation. In a 4-Three base protection — 4 linemen and three linebackers — a defensive finish will nearly always think the position of an edge rusher. But relating to a 3-4 base protection — three linemen and 4 linebackers — an outside linebacker often act as the edge rusher.

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