You’ve checked in, made it through security and found your gate. Then you wait. And you wait some more. And then you hear the captain say “We’re waiting on the slot”. What is the slot, and why can’t we take off?
The Slot is the third wide receiver position on an NFL offense. While they share some of the same traits and responsibilities as Outside and Deep wide receivers, the Slot receiver has its own unique set of skills and nuances that make it different from the rest of the receiving corps. While they don’t deal crushing blocks like Outside wide receivers, Slot receivers are a vital cog in the offensive blocking machine and must be aware of where defenders are on the field at all times.
Because they line up just a few steps off the line of scrimmage, Slot receivers have a unique perspective on the field and are often asked to do a variety of things that other wide receivers cannot. Because of this, they must be extremely agile and versatile in what they’re asked to do by the quarterback. For example, on many plays, including reverses and end-arounds, Slot receivers will run precise routes to the inside and outside, and they must be able to do so at high speed.
Moreover, Slot receivers are also often called on to act as running backs on some plays. This requires them to be able to block, as well as to run precise routes and have top-notch timing.
As a result, Slot receivers typically have great hands and speed – they’re usually shorter and smaller than other wide receivers but make up for it with their superior route-running abilities. They must be able to run just about any passing route that the quarterback can throw them, and they must do so with precision and accuracy. Additionally, because of the position’s reliance on pre-snap alignment and timing, Slot receivers must have an advanced ability to communicate with the quarterback.
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