Guard (gridiron football)

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In American football, a guard (G), otherwise known as an offensive guard (OG), is an offensive line player who lines up between the center and the tackles. Like other offensive line positions, guards are used primarily for blocking.^[1] Right guards (RG) is the term for the guards on the right of the offensive line, while left guards (LG) are on the left side. Guards are to the right or left of the center. Notable guards include Quentin Nelson (Indianapolis Colts), Zach Martin (Dallas Cowboys), and Joe Thuney (Kansas City chiefs).

The guard's job is to protect the quarterback from the incoming linemen during pass plays, as well as creating openings (holes) for the running backs to head through. Guards are automatically considered ineligible receivers, so they cannot touch forward passes, unless it is first touched by a defender or eligible receiver.