free safety
Plural
free safeties
1
a defensive player in American football who defends against long passes and provides extra coverage in the secondary
A free safety is a player in American football who plays in the defensive backfield, typically positioned deeper than other defenders. Their main job is to protect the team’s goal area by defending against long passes, intercepting the ball, and helping stop big plays. Free safeties often have more freedom to move around the field, allowing them to react to the offense’s plays and support the defense in any area where needed. They need to be quick, have strong instincts, and be able to read the quarterback’s movements to make timely decisions.
- The free safety intercepted the quarterback's pass and returned it for a touchdown.
- The free safety's primary responsibility is to prevent deep passes and support the cornerbacks.
- The free safety adjusted his coverage based on the offensive formation.
- Our team's free safety is known for his ability to read the quarterback's eyes.
- Despite the offense's efforts, the free safety broke up the pass intended for the wide receiver.