What Are the Flag Football Positions?

Offensive flag football positions include quarterback, halfback, wide receiver, snapper and offensive lineman. Defensive players are typically categorized as either “pass rushers” or “defensive backs” in reference to where they line up at the snap of the ball. While it varies from league to league, flag football typically features eight players from each team on the field, with a specified number required at the line of scrimmage.

At the line of scrimmage, the snapper, or “center” snaps the ball directly to the quarterback. His surrounding offensive linemen are responsible for blocking defensive players. As the quarterback receives the ball from the snapper, he passes or pitches the ball or runs it himself. The halfback typically lines up behind or to the side of the quarterback, receiving a hand-off or pitch or providing blocking. The receivers at the line of scrimmage run specified passing routes. In some instances, receivers may also be called upon to block.

Pass rushers at the line of scrimmage attempt to rush the quarterback or quickly reach the halfback in the event of a hand-off. Behind the line, defensive backs may employ man-to-man or zone coverage in targeting opposing receivers, while pursuing ball carriers reaching the open field.