Edge rusher

The term edge rusher (edge defender or simply edge) is a piece of nomenclature designating a position in gridiron (American) football. Some analysts often consider "edge rusher" to be its own position entirely.[1]

Players considered to be edge rushers are usually 4-3 defensive ends or 3-4 outside linebackers. It is important to understand that 3-4 outside linebackers often act as an extension of the defensive line, in that they will attack the offensive tackles or blocking tight ends on the majority of their snaps under a majority of 3-4 schemes, though it is not uncommon to see them drop back and play a more traditional 4-3 linebacker role as well.[2]

One reason the word "edge" is used in the term "edge rusher" is that edge often refers to the area outside of offensive tackles, but within a couple of yards of the line of scrimmage. While other positions will rarely be referred to as edge rushers, other than 4-3 defensive ends and 3-4 outside linebackers, it is quite common for defensive backs, traditional linebackers, and even defensive tackles to occasionally play the position on a play-to-play basis.[3]