Cornerback facts for kids

Kids Encyclopedia Facts
Asomugha covers Jenkins at Falcons at Raiders 11-2-08
Oakland Raiders cornerback Nnamdi Asomugha covers Atlanta Falcons wide receiver Michael Jenkins on November 2, 2008 in a National Football League game

A cornerback is a position on defense in American football. They usually line up on the edges of the field opposite the opposing receivers. Corners are a type of defensive back often assigned to cover wide receivers. Corners can rush the passer, intercept balls, tackle, and deflect passes. Their main job is to stop the receivers from catching the ball. In zone defense, corners are assigned to a specific area of the field, in which they cannot let anyone make a catch. In man defense, corners cover one player and try to stop them from catching a ball.

Images for kids

  • Charles Woodson and Randy Moss - San Francisco vs Green Bay 2012

    Cornerback Charles Woodson covering Randy Moss

  • Two football players, an offensive receiver and a defensive cornerback, both reach for a thrown football. The cornerback is in front of the receiver with the ball almost secured in his hands.

    A cornerback for Trinity College rises to intercept an errant pass.


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Cornerback Facts for Kids. Kiddle Encyclopedia.