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. 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. ==References==