A slot is a position on the field where a player lines up, a few yards behind the line of scrimmage. Slot receivers are a key cog in the offense and must be physically tough enough to hold their own against bigger defenders while having speedy skills to get open against coverage. They are also a huge part of the blocking game for running plays like sweeps and slant routes.

Often times, slot players are smaller than traditional wide receivers. This is because they need to be able to make moves against tight coverage and be quick to beat out defenders for open space. In addition to being fast, they must be able to run complex routes that involve a lot of elusion and evasion to beat coverage and create separation. Slot receivers also must be strong blockers as they are often responsible for blocking (or chipping) nickelbacks, outside linebackers and safeties on passing plays. On running plays, they can be a huge blocker as well when it comes to sealing off the defense and allowing the ball carrier to run through.