What position typically throws the ball on offense?

The quarterback typically throws the ball on offense in American football. Positioned behind the center and offensive line, the quarterback receives the snap and directs the play, either passing, handing the ball to a runner, or carrying it personally.

Quarterbacks became central to offensive strategy as forward passing developed into a major part of the game. Before the snap, the quarterback may read the defensive alignment, change the play, and communicate adjustments. After the snap, the quarterback must quickly decide whether to throw, hand off, scramble, or take a sack.

The quarterback is not the only player legally allowed to throw. A running back, wide receiver, or another eligible player can attempt a pass if the play meets the rules for a legal forward pass. Those plays are less common, which is why the quarterback remains the position most associated with throwing.

The position also has a historical connection to the sport’s early formations: the quarterback originally lined up a short distance behind the offensive line, between the halfback and the line.