Will Linebacker

The Will linebacker (weakside linebacker) aligns on the weak side of the defensive formation, away from the tight end, H-back, or passing strength. In modern 4-3, 4-2-5, and 3-4 systems, the Will is typically the fastest and most athletic linebacker on the field.

While the Mike linebacker aligns to the strong side to absorb downhill contact in the interior A and B gaps, defensive schemes keep the Will 'clean' (uncovered by direct offensive linemen) to maximize his lateral pursuit and space coverage:

Flow & Pursuit

Scrapes clean over the top on outside runs (Outside Zone, Sweep) and fills cutback lanes on inside runs from the backside.

Space Coverage

Matches up in man coverage against fast running backs on wheel and swing routes, or drops to the weak hook/flat zone in zone coverage shells.

Pressure & Stunts

Often blitzes through the weak B-gap or off the weak edge on boundary fires and cross-dog blitzes.