A defensive back positioned near the sideline who primarily covers wide receivers in pass coverage. Cornerbacks must possess exceptional speed, agility, and ball skills to match receivers stride for stride.
From 'corner' referring to their position near the field's corners, plus 'back' indicating their place in the defensive backfield. The position evolved as forward passing became legal in 1906, requiring specialized coverage skills.
Cornerbacks are often considered the most athletic players on the field because they must run backward while tracking both the receiver and the ball simultaneously. The position demands such unique skills that failed cornerbacks often become successful wide receivers, and vice versa.
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