Slot Receivers

slot

A slot is a period of time during which an aircraft may take off or land at an airport. Air traffic control uses slots to coordinate flights at busy airports and prevent repeated delays due to too many planes trying to take off or land simultaneously.

Typically shorter and smaller than outside wide receivers, slot receivers excel at running precise routes. They also have to be able to block effectively on running plays in which they aren’t the ball carrier. The position is important because it allows quarterbacks to shift formations more easily and gives them the ability to throw short passes behind the line of scrimmage.

Because of their specialized role, slot receivers must be tough enough to handle contact in the middle of the field and fast enough to blow past defenders. They also have to be smart enough to read defenses and find open passing lanes. As a result, they need to have good chemistry with the quarterback.

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