Slot receivers line up behind the outside tackle (or tight end) and are a vital part of any football team. They can play a variety of roles and skills, but are especially valuable on running plays, when they act as decoys or blockers for the ball carrier.
On passing plays, they run routes that mimic the other receivers to confuse the defense and make it difficult for the ball carrier to get open. They may also need to block a nickelback or outside linebacker on certain running plays designed to the outside portion of the field.
They are crucial to a successful sweep or slant run, too. They are lined up in a position that is close to the middle of the field, so they can seal off the defensive ends and help prevent blitzes from rushing the quarterback.
The role of the slot receiver on a football team is more important than ever. They are now used on nearly 40 percent of all passing attempts, and they have become increasingly versatile as teams develop them.
Al Davis, the head coach of the Oakland Raiders from 1963 to 1978, was one of the early innovators of the slot receiver. His philosophy was to train these receivers to be fast, have great hands and be precise with their routes and timing.
In addition, he wanted them to have good chemistry with the quarterback. This is critical for success with a slot receiver, because they must have a strong rapport with the quarterback in order to perform at their best.
When a slot receiver lines up, they are often called into pre-snap motion by the quarterback. This gives them a full head of steam before the ball is snapped, so they can run as quickly as possible.
They are not able to deal crushing blocks like offensive linemen, but they do need to be able to move their bodies well enough to seal off the outside defensive players. This allows them to be more mobile and open up space for the ball carrier to gain yards.
A slot receiver can also be used as a ball carrier from time to time, and they may also be called into pre-snap motion for pitch plays and reverses. The speed and agility of a slot receiver can allow them to do this, but they must be able to stay stable and avoid any contact.
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