Slot Receivers – The Versatile Wide Receiver

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The Slot receiver got his name because he lines up pre-snap between the last man on the line of scrimmage, either the tight end or offensive tackle. Because he’s a little off the line of scrimmage, he has a lot of room to run routes that some other wide receivers can’t run.

This makes him a versatile player, as he can play many different roles. He can catch passes, make plays with his hands, and even block. Typically, his blocking is more important on running plays designed to the outside part of the field.

He can also block nickelbacks, outside linebackers, and safeties. He can break up or intercept passes, as well.

A slot receiver will often be a good route-runner, too. He will need to be able to read and react to defensive coverages quickly. This is especially true for outside-to-outside and deep routes, because of the space he has to work with in the slot.

Some slot receivers are better at making big plays than others, but this doesn’t mean they can’t be a successful football player. Some of the best Slot receivers in history have made big-time plays with their hands and speed.

They also need to have exceptional blocking skills, so they can seal off the outside of the field and make sure no other receivers are able to pick them up. They may need to use a crack back block to help a quarterback get around the defense on a blitz or a quick pass.

Their size can be a problem, as they’re usually shorter and smaller than some outside receivers. However, they have more agility than most wideouts.

In recent years, the professional game has leaned more heavily on slot receivers than ever before. Because they’re a little quicker and more agile than other wide receivers, they’re a great complement to any offense.

They’re often used in a 3-1 receiver/back configuration and they have been targeted on nearly 40 percent of passing attempts in recent seasons.

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