Defensive ends ("DE") in a 4-3 defense

Outside linebackers ("OLB") in a 3-4 defense

Edge rusher (alternately edge defender or simply edge) is a term designating a position in gridiron football. Some analysts consider "edge rusher" to be its own position entirely.^[1]

Discussion

Players considered to be edge rushers are usually 4-3 defensive ends or 3-4 outside linebackers. Note 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 common for defensive backs, traditional linebackers, and even defensive tackles to occasionally play the position on a play-to-play basis.^[3]

Notable players

Notable edge rushers of the National Football League (NFL) as of the early 2020s include:^[4]

• Joey Bosa (DE)
• Nick Bosa (DE)
• Jadeveon Clowney (OLB/DE)
• Myles Garrett (DE)
• Chandler Jones (OLB)
• Khalil Mack (OLB)
• Cameron Jordan (DE)
• T. J. Watt (OLB)
• Chase Young (DE)
• Yannick Ngakoue (OLB/DE)

Each player's traditional position is noted in parentheses (DE for defensive end, OLB for outside linebacker).

References