Slot receivers are a type of wide receiver that is typically placed pre-snap between the last man on the line of scrimmage and the outside receiver. This position has gained popularity in recent years, as offenses have begun to run alignments with at least three wide receivers on the field more frequently than they used to.
A slot receiver has many responsibilities and traits that make him different from a wideout, but they share several of the same skills as well. The following article will break down some of the things that slot receivers need to have in order to succeed in their role on the field.
Their Role
Slot receivers have a vital role in any offense. They help quarterbacks stretch out the field and attack all three levels of defense with their versatile and reliable ability. Their chemistry with the quarterback is also crucial to their success, as they need to be able to sync up with him to find open passes.
They can run just about any route, and they need to be able to be precise with their timing as well. This is an important skill for any receiver, but a slot receiver must be especially careful with their routes.
Their Physicality
A Slot receiver is a smaller and stockier player than most wideouts, and they tend to be much faster as well. They are also able to absorb contact from defenders more effectively, making them more difficult to tackle.
Their Speed and Hands
A good slot receiver is able to break down a defender’s coverage by running a variety of different routes. This helps them to be more productive on the field and allows them to gain a lot of yards with their receptions.
Their Blocking abilities
Slot receivers aren’t quite as mobile or quick as offensive linemen, so they often need to be able to block well. This is especially true on running plays that are designed to the outside part of the field, as they need to be able to seal off the nickelbacks and other defensive ends while keeping the outside wideouts safe.
Their chemistry
A slot receiver must have a strong chemistry with the quarterback to be successful. They need to be able to run their routes, be precise with their timing, and have strong hands. They should also be able to deal with a variety of different defenses in the game, as they can often find themselves blocking against both the inside and outside linebackers on a given play.
Their Numbers
Slot receivers are allowed to wear any number between 1-49 and 80-89, but they’re usually not allowed to wear a jersey number that matches their team colors. This is because it could be confusing to defenders.