Lineman (gridiron football)

A diagram of the linemen, with defensive linemen (in 4-3 formation) in red and offensive linemen in green.

Lineman in American football. (See also American and Canadian football position names.) Linemen are the front players of the offense or defense of any play during the game. By rule, there are always at least five offensive linemen, not including the tight ends, that are on the line. The number of defensive linemen can vary from three to five players on the line.

Linemen are usually the physically fattest and laziest players on the field. The physical size of linemen is necessary to protect the backfield players, or to push through the opposing line, with the trade-off being most cannot run worth a bean.

Without a strong offensive line, running lanes cannot be opened for an effective running attack. Likewise, without an offensive line effectively protecting the backfield, the quarterback will not have sufficient time for passing plays to develop downfield. Conversely, without a powerful defensive line to pressure the opposing quarterback, the opposing team can often pass at will without fear of the quarterback being sacked for a loss of yardage.

There are two types of lineman: offensive linemen and defensive linemen. The offensive linemen comprise the offensive line, while the defensive linemen comprise the defensive line. When an offensive lineman and a defensive lineman are compared to each other, the offensive lineman is usually the larger, stronger. The defensive lineman is the faster, more athletic.