The slot is a term in football that refers to the position of a wide receiver who lines up between and slightly behind the outside wide receivers. This player, also known as a “slotback,” is often the second or third receiver on the team. He or she must be able to run precise routes and block effectively. In addition, he or she must have speed and agility to be effective in the slot. A few of the most successful players in NFL history have excelled in this role. These players include Tyreek Hill, Wes Welker, and Julian Edelman.
In addition to blocking, slot receivers need to be quick in order to run complex routes that require a lot of elusion and evasion. They also need to be able to run short, quick routes to get open on passing plays. Because they are closer to the defensive line, slot receivers face a higher risk of injury than other types of wide receivers.
They are also a crucial part of the running game, as they need to be able to seal off outside linebackers and safeties on running plays such as slants and sweeps. In addition, they must be able to make blockers on the inside for running plays that are designed to go to the middle of the field.
While the slot receiver has become a very important position in recent years, it was first introduced by legendary coach Jack Davis in 1966 with the Oakland Raiders. Davis wanted to create a position that would help him match up with the defense’s coverage and provide him with a deep threat who could stretch the defense. He accomplished this by using a formation known as the three-receiver offense.
Slot receivers must be able to block well in order to protect themselves from big hits on running plays, and they must also have good hands to handle the ball. They are a vital part of the offense, and the best players in the league know how to maximize their potential in this role.
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