Defensive players are athletes in team sports whose primary role is to prevent the opposing team from scoring. In sports like football, basketball, and soccer, these players use various strategies and skills to block, tackle, or intercept the ball or puck. Their main objective is to protect their team's goal or scoring area. In American football, defensive players include positions like linebackers and cornerbacks, while in basketball, they may be guards or forwards tasked with guarding opponents. Effective defensive players are often quick, agile, and possess strong awareness of the game, allowing them to anticipate the opponent's moves and react accordingly.