A slot is a narrow notch, groove or opening, such as a keyway in a piece of machinery, a slit for a coin in a vending machine, etc. The term is also used to describe a position in a group, series or sequence.
In football, a slot receiver lines up pre-snap between the last man on the line of scrimmage (usually the tight end or offensive tackle) and the outside wide receiver. This is where the position gets its name from. The slot receiver is one of the most important players on any offense, as he helps stretch the defense and attack all three levels of the defense.
To be an effective slot receiver, a player must be fast enough to blow past defenders and catch the ball with ease. He must also run a variety of routes and have excellent chemistry with the quarterback. Because of the importance of this position, there are a number of factors that go into making a successful slot receiver.
Route Running
A good slot receiver knows how to run all of the basic routes, but he is especially good at running the quick and intermediate routes. He must be able to get open quickly and easily by reading the coverage and recognizing which routes his quarterback is looking for. He must also be able to adjust his route on the fly based on what coverage is given to him by the defense.
Blocking
Because a slot receiver typically lines up close to the middle of the field, he must be good at blocking. In fact, he is often more important to the success of a running play than an outside receiver because he must be able to seal off nickelbacks and safetys while blocking the defensive ends on running plays. A good slot receiver is able to perform a variety of different blocking techniques, including chip blocks and stance adjustments.
Blocking is a very important skill for any wide receiver, but it is particularly vital for a slot receiver. Slot receivers must be able to effectively block both inside and outside linebackers as well as safeties. They also need to be able to chip defenders on passing plays.
Chemistry
A slot receiver must be able to work well with his quarterback, as this is the only way he can maximize his effectiveness. Communication is essential in this position, and a good slot receiver is able to read the quarterback well enough to know when he needs to change his route or if he is running a deep pattern.
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