Slot is a term that refers to a space in football between the end of the offensive line (or tight end) and the farthest wide receiver. This area is used for a variety of purposes, including as a decoy or to open up an outside receiver downfield. Usually, a slot receiver is a third-string receiver and primarily a pass-catching specialist.
A lot of people are confused by the term “slot.” There are many misconceptions about this concept, but if you understand the basics of what a slot is, you’ll be on your way to understanding it better.
The term “slot” is derived from the slot formation that was pioneered by Oakland Raiders head coach John Madden in the 1970s. He wanted a team that was fast, had great hands, and was precise with its routes. This slot formation would allow a running back to get to the ball quickly, while also providing protection on outside run plays.
How a Slot Receiver Works
A slot receiver is generally a small player who runs shorter routes. They are often the third-string receiver on a team and can be an important part of any offense. They are usually a pass-catching specialist, but they can be used as blockers or as a decoy to open up the outside receivers downfield.
There are a number of different positions a slot receiver can fill, but all of them require him to be aware of the entire field. He must have a good understanding of where the defense is, know the players that are on his side of the field, and be able to quickly communicate with the quarterback about his route. This can be a challenging position to learn, but it can also lead to some amazing plays in the NFL.
WR Slots
A receiver who lines up in the slot has an advantage over outside receivers in terms of speed and strength. The slot receiver is able to move around more easily and can outrun defenders in the open field. They can also catch short passes more effectively, which makes them a valuable asset to a passing offense.
The most common way a slot receiver makes a play is by running with the ball in their hands. Typically, the quarterback hands the ball to them as they’re in motion before snapping the ball. This gives the slot receiver a full head of steam before they even take the first step, and it allows them to outrun defenders.
When a slot receiver isn’t running with the ball, they are still an essential part of a running game. They help out the running back or wide receiver by picking up blitzes from linebackers and secondary players. They can also be used as a decoy to open up an outside receiver downfield, which can lead to big gains for the running back or wideout.
In the NFL, there are a number of slot receivers that you might not have heard of before. These include Tyler Boyd, Cooper Kupp, and CeeDee Lamb. They are all very talented and can make a difference in a team’s success.
