Safety (gridiron football position)

The free safety tends to watch the play unfold and follow the ball as well as be the "defensive quarterback" of the backfield.

On pass plays, the free safety is expected to assist the cornerback on his side and to close the distance to the receiver by the time the ball reaches him.

This phenomenon often tests how effective a free safety's savvy and athleticism are at defending long pass plays.

Current examples of free safeties active in the NFL include Marcus Williams, Justin Simmons, Minkah Fitzpatrick, Quandre Diggs, Kevin Byard, Micah Hyde, and Jessie Bates III.

Current examples of strong safeties active in the NFL include Kyle Hamilton, Jamal Adams, Jordan Poyer, Harrison Smith, Budda Baker, Tyrann Mathieu and Derwin James.