Quarterback (QB): Leader of the offense; responsible for getting everyone lined up and controlling the snap of the football. Handles the snap off the ball and distributing the ball to the Ball Carriers by handoff, pitch, lateral or down field passes. Also run the ball themselves.
Running Back (RB)
Halfback (HB): Primary ball carrier, runs with the ball, catches passes and blocks in pass protection.
Fullback (FB): Larger back used for blocking and short-yardage running and has become an athlete that can play TE and WING as well
Wide Receiver (WR): Catches passes; typically fast and agile players. Must be great blockers as well…unselfish teammate.
Tight End (TE): Hybrid role; can block like a lineman or catch passes like a receiver.
Offensive Linemen (OL)
Center (C): Snaps the ball to the quarterback and blocks defenders.
Guard (G): Blocks defenders; positioned on either side of the center.
Tackle (T): Protects the quarterback on the edges of the line.
Defensive Players
Defensive Linemen (DL)
Defensive End (DE): Attacks the quarterback and defends against outside runs…usually longer body type with long arms
Defensive Tackle (DT): Stops the run and pressures the quarterback; lines up in the middle. Usually bigger body type and very strong.
Linebackers (LB)
Middle Linebacker (MLB): Leader of the defense; reads plays and makes tackles; gets everyone lined up.
Outside Linebacker (OLB): Covers receivers, rushes the quarterback, and stops runs.
Defensive Backs (DB)
Cornerback (CB): Covers wide receivers; prevents passes from being caught, tackles the ball carrier.
Safety (S)
Free Safety (FS): Defends deep passes; acts as the last line of defense.
Strong Safety (SS): Larger and more physical; defends against the run and tight ends.
Special Teams Players
Kicker (K): Handles field goals, extra points, and kickoffs.
Punter (P): Kicks the ball downfield on fourth down to pin the opposing team back.
Long Snapper (LS): Specializes in snapping the ball for punts and field goals.
Holder (H): Catches the snap and holds the ball for the kicker.
Kick Returner (KR): Specializes in returning kickoffs for yardage.
Punt Returner (PR): Specializes in catching and returning punts.
Hybrid Positions
H-Back: A hybrid of a tight end and fullback, used in blocking and catching roles.
Nickelback (NB): An additional defensive back used in passing situations.
Dimeback (DB): A sixth defensive back used in specific passing scenarios.
Utility Players: Versatile athletes who can play multiple positions, often used in college or smaller rosters.
Types of Coaches
Core Coaching Staff
Head Coach: Oversees the entire team; sets strategies, manages the staff, builds team dynamic, only coach that talks to referees, and makes key decisions during games.
Offensive Coordinator (OC): Designs and oversees the offensive game plan; calls plays for the offense during the game.
Defensive Coordinator (DC): Develops the defensive strategy; focuses on stopping the opposing team’s offense and calling defensive plays.
Special Teams Coordinator: Handles all special teams units, including kickoffs, punts, and field goals.
Position-Specific Coaches
Quarterbacks Coach: Works closely with quarterbacks to develop passing mechanics/footwork, decision-making, reading coverages and fronts, setting the protection or blocking schmer, leadership, and play execution.
Running Backs Coach: Focuses on ball-handling skills, blocking, and route running for running backs.
Wide Receivers Coach: Trains wide receivers in route running, catching, blocking, and reading defensive coverage.
Tight Ends Coach: Prepares tight ends for both receiving and blocking roles.
Offensive Line Coach: Teaches techniques for blocking, pass protection, and run schemes to the offensive linemen.
Defensive Line Coach: Focuses on rush techniques, gap assignments, and stopping the run for the defensive linemen.
Linebackers Coach: Develops tackling, coverage, and blitzing skills for linebackers.
Defensive Backs Coach: Trains cornerbacks and safeties in coverage techniques, tackling, and defensive reads.
Specialized Roles
Strength and Conditioning Coach: Focuses on player fitness, injury prevention, flexibility, and maximizing physical performance.
Officials and Referees
Referee (R): The lead official; responsible for overseeing the entire game, enforcing rules, and making final decisions on disputes.
Umpire (U): Positioned near the linebackers; focuses on the legality of line play, player equipment, and penalties involving the offensive and defensive lines.
Head Linesman (HL): Monitors the line of scrimmage; watches for offsides and illegal motion and ensures correct spotting of the ball.
Line Judge (LJ): Positioned opposite the Head Linesman; assists with line of scrimmage violations and oversees timing responsibilities.
Field Judge (FJ): Positioned deep in the defensive backfield; watches receivers, monitors the sideline, and calls pass interference penalties.
Side Judge (SJ): Works opposite the Field Judge; monitors plays on their side of the field and assists with calls on deep passes.
Back Judge (BJ): Positioned behind the defensive secondary; watches for pass interference, monitors the play clock, and oversees special teams play.
Replay Official: Reviews plays for accuracy using video footage; assists the referee in making overturns or upholding calls.
Down Judge: Tracks the downs and manages the chain crew; ensures the correct spot of the ball after each play.
Chain Crew: Manages the chains and down markers on the sideline to indicate yardage and downs.
Clock Operator: Responsible for managing the game clock and play clock; works in collaboration with on-field officials.
Rules Analyst: Provides clarification on complex rules during broadcast reviews or when consulted by officials.
Specialized Roles for Officials
Instant Replay Official: Ensures accuracy in reviewing controversial or close plays; often used in professional and collegiate leagues to confirm or overturn calls.
Alternate Official: Present as a backup in case one of the primary officials is unable to perform their duties.
Penalty Spotter: Assists referees in pinpointing the exact spot where a penalty occurred.
Sky Judge (experimental in some leagues): Observes the game from a high vantage point and communicates with on-field officials to correct missed calls or provide additional insights.
Scouting Officials (Collegiate Level): Evaluates officials’ performance during the game for developmental purposes and future assignments.
Training and Development Officials: Focus on mentoring and improving the skills of new or less experienced referees.
Support Staff
Athletic Trainers: Provide medical care, including injury prevention, treatment, and rehabilitation for players. Very important role for football programs…they get the athletes healthy and back on the field after injury.
Team Physicians: Oversee players’ medical conditions, conduct physical exams, and handle major injuries during games.
Equipment Managers: Manage and maintain all team equipment, ensuring players have properly fitted helmets, pads, and uniforms.
Nutritionists: Design meal plans tailored to optimize player performance and recovery while ensuring the players are properly hydrated.
Strength and Conditioning Specialists: Develop fitness programs to improve players’ physical capabilities and prevent injuries.
Psychologists: Help players manage stress, build confidence, and maintain focus during games and training.
Video Analysts: Record and break down game footage for coaches and players to analyze performance and strategies.
Performance Analysts: Use data to track player metrics like speed, endurance, and recovery rates for performance improvement.
Front Office Personnel
General Manager (GM): Oversees the team’s operations, including player acquisitions, trades, contracts, and overall roster management.
Assistant General Manager (AGM): Supports the GM in decision-making, often specializing in specific areas like scouting or salary cap management.
Director of Player Personnel: Manages scouting and recruitment efforts, focusing on evaluating current players and potential acquisitions.
Scout: Evaluates players at various levels (college, professional, or high school) to identify talent for the team.
Salary Cap Manager: Handles financial planning and ensures the team stays within the league’s salary cap while structuring contracts.
Director of Football Operations: Oversees the logistical aspects of the team, including travel, practice schedules, and facility management.
Data Analyst: Provides statistical insights and performance analytics to support decision-making in player development and game strategies.
Team President: Manages the organization’s business side, including sponsorships, marketing, and public relations.
Director of Community Relations: Focuses on outreach programs and initiatives to build strong connections between the team and its community.
Public Relations Manager: Handles media relations, press releases, and communication between the team and the public.
Game Day Roles
Sideline Personnel: Includes ball boys/girls, chain crew, and sideline assistants who manage game equipment and logistics during play.
Ball Boys/Girls: Responsible for retrieving and supplying footballs during the game to ensure smooth play.
Chain Crew: Manages the first-down chains and markers on the sideline to indicate yardage and downs.
Media Team: Comprises announcers, statisticians, and camera crew who provide live coverage and analysis of the game.
Play-by-Play Announcers: Provide real-time descriptions of the game’s action for viewers and listeners.
Color Commentators: Offer expert analysis, insights, and context during the game broadcast.
Sideline Reporters: Deliver updates from the field, including player interviews and injury reports.
Statisticians: Track and record in-game statistics for use by coaches, broadcasters, and analysts.
Cheerleaders/Dance Teams: Perform routines to entertain the crowd and boost team spirit.
Security Staff: Ensures the safety of players, coaches, and fans by managing access to the field and addressing disruptions.
Event Coordinators: Organize and oversee game-day logistics, including pregame ceremonies and halftime shows.
Mascots: Engage fans with entertaining performances and interactions during the game.
Medical Staff: Includes trainers and team physicians available for on-field injury evaluation and treatment.
League/Organization Personnel
Commissioner: Acts as the chief executive of the league, overseeing operations, enforcing rules, and representing the league in public and legal matters.
League Officials: Administer and enforce league-wide policies, manage disputes, and oversee disciplinary actions.
Rules Committee Members: Develop and update the rules of the game to ensure fairness, safety, and consistency across the league.
Player Union Representatives: Advocate for players’ rights, negotiate collective bargaining agreements, and address workplace concerns.
Director of Officiating: Oversees training, evaluation, and assignments of game officials; ensures consistency in officiating across games.
Broadcasting Executives: Coordinate media rights deals, manage game broadcasts, and maintain relationships with television and streaming partners.
Scheduling Coordinators: Create and manage the league’s schedule, balancing fairness, travel logistics, and broadcast priorities.
Public Relations Team: Handles league communications, press releases, and media inquiries; works to maintain the league’s image.
Marketing Team: Develops campaigns to promote the league, attract fans, and boost ticket and merchandise sales.
Sponsorship Managers: Build and maintain relationships with corporate sponsors to secure funding and promotional partnerships.
Legal Advisors: Provide legal support on contracts, disputes, and compliance with local and federal regulations.
League Medical Director: Sets health and safety protocols for teams and players, including concussion protocols and injury management.
Specialized Roles for Youth or Amateur Football
Volunteer Coaches: Often parents or community members who lead and guide the team, typically without formal compensation.
Assistant Volunteer Coaches: Support the head coach by managing drills, organizing equipment, and assisting during games.
Parent Coordinators: Act as a liaison between coaches and parents, managing team communications, schedules, and fundraising efforts.
Youth League Administrators: Oversee the operation of the league, including setting schedules, organizing tournaments, and ensuring compliance with rules.
Referees for Youth Games: Adapt rules to suit younger players, emphasizing learning and safety over strict enforcement.
Equipment Coordinators: Ensure all players have properly sized and safe equipment, including helmets and pads.
Safety Monitors: Focus on player safety, ensuring adherence to concussion protocols and other health guidelines.
Team Moms/Dads: Provide logistical support, such as organizing snacks, team travel, and post-game celebrations.
Field Maintenance Volunteers: Prepare and maintain playing fields, ensuring safe and playable conditions.
Skills Development Coaches: Focus on teaching foundational skills like passing, tackling, and teamwork in an age-appropriate manner.
Strength and Conditioning Advisors: Adapt training regimens to suit the developmental needs of young players, focusing on injury prevention and basic fitness.
Youth Mentors: Serve as role models, teaching sportsmanship, teamwork, and life skills alongside football.
Training and Development Staff
Personal Trainers: Work one-on-one with players to improve their physical fitness, strength, and agility tailored to their position and role on the team.
Skills Development Coaches: Specialize in honing specific techniques such as throwing mechanics, footwork, or tackling form.
Combine Prep Specialists: Prepare players for athletic performance tests, such as the 40-yard dash and vertical jump, often for college or professional scouts.
Strength and Conditioning Coaches: Design and implement training programs to enhance strength, speed, endurance, and injury prevention.
Rehabilitation Specialists: Assist injured players in recovering and regaining full functionality through targeted therapy and exercises.
Sports Psychologists: Help players improve mental toughness, manage stress, and stay focused during training and games.
Dietitians and Nutritionists: Provide tailored meal plans and nutrition advice to optimize players’ energy levels and recovery times.
Film Analysts: Review practice footage with players to identify areas for improvement and reinforce successful techniques.
Leadership Development Coaches: Teach players to cultivate leadership skills both on and off the field, often focusing on captains or team leaders.
Youth Mentors and Advisors: Focus on younger players, helping them transition to higher levels of competition while fostering good sportsmanship.
Media and Commentary Personnel
Play-by-Play Announcers: Provide real-time descriptions of the game’s action, narrating every play for television, radio, or streaming audiences.
Color Commentators: Offer expert analysis, context, and insights to complement play-by-play coverage, often former players or coaches.
Sideline Reporters: Deliver updates from the field, including injury reports, player interviews, and team strategies.
Studio Hosts: Anchor pregame, halftime, and postgame shows, guiding panel discussions and providing context for the broadcast.
Analysts: Break down plays, strategies, and performances using data and personal expertise to educate and engage viewers.
Statisticians: Track and provide detailed in-game statistics for commentators, coaches, and fans.
Production Crew: Includes directors, producers, and camera operators who manage the technical aspects of broadcasting the game.
Social Media Managers: Handle live updates, highlights, and fan engagement through platforms like Twitter, Instagram, and Facebook during the game.
Photographers: Capture key moments from the game for use in media, social posts, and promotional materials.
Field Audio Technicians: Record sounds from the field, including player interactions and crowd noise, to enhance the viewing experience.
Public Address Announcers: Provide live commentary and updates for the in-stadium audience, including player introductions and penalty announcements.
Content Writers: Produce written analyses, recaps, and features for online platforms and traditional media outlets.
Assistant Coach: Supports head and position coaches; may take on a variety of tasks or specialize in areas like film analysis or drills.
Graduate Assistant (GA): Often seen in college football, these are younger coaches gaining experience while assisting with various duties…do all the small jobs nobody wants to do!
Quality Control Coach: Analyzes opponent game footage, prepares reports, and assists in developing game plans.
Player Development Coach: Helps players improve off-the-field habits, including leadership, study habits, and life skills.
Special Teams Coaches
Kicking Coach: Works exclusively with kickers, punters, and long snappers on mechanics and consistency.
Return Specialist Coach: Trains kick and punt returners on positioning, vision, and decision-making.
Game-Specific Roles
Game Management Coach: Advises the head coach on clock management, challenge decisions, and situational play-calling.
Analytics Coach: Uses data to recommend strategies like going for it on fourth down or deciding when to kick a field goal.
Practice and Development Coaches
Scout Team Coach: Coaches the practice squad to simulate the upcoming opponent’s strategies during training.
Recruiting Coordinator (College/High School): Focuses on identifying and securing new talent for the team.
Other Key Roles
Consultants: Hired for specific expertise, such as helping with a particular aspect of the game or advising on strategy.
Mental Skills Coach: Works with players on focus, stress management, and confidence-building.
