OLB
Sports abbreviation · American Football
| Stands for | Outside linebacker |
|---|---|
| Categories | Sports |
OLB stands for Outside linebacker, an American football abbreviation.
Linebacker who lines up outside the tackles; in 3-4 defenses outside linebackers are the main pass rushers, while in 4-3 schemes they cover more and set the edge against runs. Lawrence Taylor redefined the role as a pass-rushing weapon in the 1980s.
Example: The OLB has 14 sacks this season, the most among 3-4 edge rushers.
Usage notes
Strong-side (Sam) and weak-side (Will) outside linebackers have different duties depending on where the tight end lines up. Because 3-4 outside linebackers rush like defensive ends, analysts often group both as "edge" defenders. Inside linebackers in a 3-4 are abbreviated ILB.