Defensive ends are key players on a football team's defense, positioned at the outer edges of the defensive line. Their primary role is to rush the quarterback and stop running plays directed toward the outside. They must be quick and agile, using their speed and strength to evade offensive linemen and disrupt the opposing team's plays. In addition to pressuring the quarterback, defensive ends also play a crucial role in defending against the run. They are responsible for containing outside runs and forcing ball carriers back toward the middle of the field, where other defenders, like linebackers, can assist. Effective defensive ends can significantly impact a game by creating turnovers and applying pressure on the offense.