Defensive tackles are key players on a football team's defense, positioned in the middle of the defensive line. Their primary role is to stop the opposing team's running plays and pressure the quarterback during passing plays. They use their strength and agility to break through offensive linemen and disrupt the play. These players often weigh between 300 and 350 pounds and are typically shorter than other defensive linemen, which helps them leverage their power effectively. Defensive tackles work closely with linebackers and defensive ends to form a cohesive unit that aims to control the line of scrimmage and limit the offense's options.