A slot is a narrow notch, groove, or opening. It can be used in the sense of a keyway or as a slit for a coin in a vending machine, for example.
A Slot Receiver is a type of wide receiver that lines up in the slot position slightly off the line of scrimmage, giving them more opportunities and options for route running than most outside receivers do. They also have a greater ability to block than their outside counterparts, which can be very valuable in the NFL.
They may not be as fast or big as a traditional wide receiver, but their versatility and toughness can help them make plays in the NFL. In recent years, the game has become increasingly reliant on slot receivers in the professional game.
There are many different kinds of slot receivers, but most have similar characteristics and strengths. They must be quick, tough, and have the skills to withstand contact in the middle of the field.
Slot receivers are usually the 3rd string receiver on their team, and are primarily pass-catching specialists. They often play on passing downs, but they can also catch a lot of short passes and run long routes to open up other passes underneath them.
They must have great awareness of the field and be able to predict which defenders will be where when they run a route, and they must have good speed to blow past defenders as they enter the open field.