Everything You Need to Know About the Slot Position in the NFL

The slot is an important position in today’s NFL because it allows quarterbacks to attack all three levels of the defense with ease. They also provide teams with an extra blocker on outside run plays and can pick up blitzes from linebackers and secondary players. With the slot becoming such a vital part of every offense, let’s break down everything you need to know about this position.

A slot is a narrow opening in a machine or container that accepts something, such as a coin. It can be found on the face of a slot machine or, in ticket-in, ticket-out machines, at the top or bottom of the machine.

In a slot game, a player inserts cash or, on ticket-in, ticket-out machines, a paper ticket with a barcode to activate the machine. The reels then spin and, if the symbols line up, the player earns credits according to the pay table. Typically, the symbols correspond with the theme of the machine and can include classic objects like fruits, bells, and stylized lucky sevens.

The slot is the second wide receiver in a formation, often lined up directly opposite the tight end. The Slot receiver is usually smaller and shorter than the outside wideout, but he must have exceptional hands and great speed to get open on passing routes. He must be able to run all types of routes and be precise with his timing. Additionally, he must be a great blocker as he is frequently asked to protect the running back and wideout on outside run plays.