Cornerbacks

Overview

The cornerback's chief responsibility is to defend against the offense's pass. The rules of American professional football and American college football do not mandate starting position, movement, or coverage zones for any member of the defense. There are no "illegal defense" formations. Cornerbacks can be anywhere on the defensive side of the line of scrimmage at the start of play, although their proximity, formations, and strategies are outlined by the coaching staff or captain. Examples of cornerbacks in the NFL are Jalen Ramsey, Patrick Surtain II, Marlon Humphrey, Jaire Alexander, Sauce Gardner, L'Jarius Sneed, and Charvarius Ward.