A slot is a narrow opening in a machine or container, such as a slit for a coin in a vending machine. In a casino, slot machines are the most popular type of game. They’re also a lot of fun to play and can be quite addictive.
Despite being a little more difficult to defend than traditional wide receivers, slot receivers have become a staple in the NFL over the past decade or so. These players are shorter and faster than most traditional wideouts and can stretch the defense vertically off pure speed.
When lining up in the slot, Slot receivers can run a variety of different routes that can go up, in or out of the line of scrimmage. This helps them open up space and get a quick read on the defense, allowing their quarterback to make accurate passes without a huge threat of getting caught.
They can also act as a running back or blocker from time to time. This is often done when the offense needs to create space for their running back or wideout on outside run plays.
Some Slot receivers also need to be able to catch the ball out of the air, and this is where they become a key player on the team. Some Slot receivers, such as Tyreek Hill or Brandin Cooks, have excellent ball handling skills that allow them to make catches over the middle of the field.
Some other Slot receivers, such as Robert Woods and Juju Smith-Schuster, have also been incredibly successful in the slot. These players can stretch the defense vertically and help their team out of their spread offense.