free safety

American  

noun

Football.

1. a member of a secondary, usually the deepest-playing defender, with no specific assignment at the snap of the ball, but often covering the area of the field across from the weak side of the opponent's offensive line against runs and long pass plays.

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Example Sentences

The Steelers had grown disenchanted with Fitzpatrick, who was named All-Pro in 2019, 2020 and 2022 but had only one interception in the last two seasons after moving from free safety to strong safety.

From Los Angeles Times • Jun. 30, 2025

Alohi Gilman, the Chargers’ returning free safety from last season, has missed six games because of injuries.

From Los Angeles Times • Jan. 8, 2025

Additionally, CSU provides an app linking students to the university's police department and offers a free safety escort service for campus and nearby student housing.

From BBC • Apr. 26, 2024

The reality is, Adams already was largely playing a linebacker-type role — of his 518 snaps last year, just 85 were at free safety, according to Pro Football Focus.

From Seattle Times • Mar. 21, 2024

According to PFF, he had 489 yards at strong safety, 335 at free safety and 188 in the slot.

From Seattle Times • Mar. 13, 2024