Defensive Back

In American football and Canadian football, defensive backs (DBs) are the players on the defensive team who take positions somewhat back from the line of scrimmage; they are distinguished from the defensive line players and linebackers, who take positions directly behind or close to the line of scrimmage.

The defensive backs, in turn, generally are classified into several different specialized positions:

• Safety
• Cornerback, which include
  • nickel back, the fifth defensive back in some sets
  • dime back, the sixth defensive back in some sets
  • The seventh defensive back, in the exceedingly rare 'quarter' set
    • known as a dollar back or a quarter back (not to be confused with the offensive player who throws the ball)

The group of defensive backs is known collectively as the secondary. They most often defend the wide receiver corps, however, at times they may also line up against a tight end or a split out running back. They are usually the smallest, quickest players on the field.

See also

• American football positions

Positions in American football and Canadian football
Offense			Defense			Special teams
Linemen	Guard, Tackle, Center		Linemen	Tackle, End, Nose tackle		Kicking players	Placekicker, Punter, Kickoff specialist
Quarterback			Linebackers			Snapping	Long snapper, Holder
Backs	Halfback (Tailback), Fullback, H-back		Backs	Cornerback, Safety		Returning	Punt returner, Kick returner
Receivers	Wide receiver, Tight end, Slotback			Nickelback, Dimeback		Tackling	Gunner
Formations - Nomenclature