Understanding Football Positions and Roles

American football features specialized positions with unique responsibilities and skill requirements. Marketing Director Ria Harman and our coaching staff help new players and families understand these positions to find the best fit for each individual.

Offensive Positions

The offense's goal is to advance the ball toward the end zone and score points:

Quarterback (QB)

The field general who leads the offense:

• Throws passes to receivers and running backs
• Hands off the ball to running backs
• Makes pre-snap reads and adjustments
• Provides leadership and communication

Running Back (RB)

Versatile players who carry the ball and catch passes:

• Rush the ball through gaps in the defense
• Catch passes out of the backfield
• Block for the quarterback on pass plays
• Return kicks and punts in special situations

Wide Receivers (WR)

Speed and agility specialists who catch passes:

• Run precise pass routes
• Create separation from defensive backs
• Make catches in traffic
• Block downfield on running plays

Tight End (TE)

Hybrid players who both block and receive:

• Block like an offensive lineman
• Run routes and catch passes like a receiver
• Provide additional protection for the quarterback
• Create mismatches against smaller defenders

Offensive Line

The foundation that protects the quarterback and creates running lanes:

• Center (C): Snaps the ball and anchors the line
• Guards (G): Protect against inside pass rush and create inside running gaps
• Tackles (T): Protect against outside pass rush and seal the edge

Defensive Positions

The defense's job is to stop the offense and create turnovers:

Defensive Line

The front line of defense that rushes the passer and stops running plays:

• Defensive End (DE): Outside pass rushers who also contain running plays
• Defensive Tackle (DT): Inside players who clog running lanes and rush the passer
• Nose Tackle (NT): Specialized interior lineman in 3-4 defenses

Linebackers (LB)

Versatile defenders who cover multiple responsibilities:

• Defend against both run and pass
• Cover tight ends and running backs in pass coverage
• Rush the passer on blitz plays
• Make tackles from sideline to sideline

Defensive Backs

Coverage specialists who defend against the pass:

• Cornerbacks (CB): Cover wide receivers and defend the outside
• Safeties (S): Provide deep coverage and run support
• Nickel/Dime backs: Additional defensive backs for pass-heavy situations

Special Teams Positions

Specialized units for kicking plays:

• Kicker (K): Handles field goals and extra points
• Punter (P): Kicks the ball to the other team on fourth down
• Long Snapper (LS): Specialized center for punts and kicks
• Return Specialists: Field kicks and punts for maximum field position

Finding the Right Position

Ria Harman advises: "The best position for a young player depends on their physical attributes, interests, and skill set. We encourage players to try different positions and find where they feel most comfortable and can contribute to the team."

Position-Specific Skills Development

Each position requires specific skills that can be developed through targeted training:

• Ball skills for receivers and defensive backs
• Footwork and technique for linemen
• Vision and decision-making for quarterbacks and running backs
• Tackling and coverage skills for defensive players

At South London Pirates, we help every player understand all positions to develop better football IQ and team awareness, while also helping them specialize in positions that match their strengths and interests.