also: offensive Joker · Joker player · Joker tight end
A playbook-specific offensive role for a skill player who creates difficult passing-game matchups. The player is often a tight end or running back.
In Sean Payton's terminology, the Joker is a tight end or running back with the receiving skills to create a matchup problem. The offense can move him around the formation and make the defense choose between a linebacker who may not cover him and a defensive back he may outweigh.
Payton looks for this player inside, where the tight end, back and slot receiver attack the middle of the coverage. The matchup is especially useful on third down and in the red zone.
offensive Joker, Joker playerjokerA movable tight end may fill the Joker role, but Joker can also be a running back. The role belongs to the player the offense features as an inside matchup.