The running backs, wide receivers, and tight ends on a team are often referred to asoffensive weapons or simplyweapons for a quarterback on the offensive side of the ball.[6] Sportswriters often use the term interchangeably with "skill position" to describe non-quarterback and non-offensive linemen on a team's offense.[6][7][8]
Skill positions are contrasted withlinemen and defensive players, which are generally considered to be positions heavily reliant on power and brute strength.[9] Skill position players are often physically smaller than linemen, but they must also be faster and have other talents; such as the ability to throw accurately, handle or catch the ball under pressure, avoid tacklers, or read and exploit defensive weaknesses; which are less of a priority for linemen.
