The slot is the area between and slightly behind the wide receivers and offensive linemen. A player lined up in this position is called a “slot receiver.”
Having a strong slot receiver is one of the most important things that a team can have. Without a quality slot receiver, quarterbacks have a hard time stretching out the field and attacking all three levels of the defense.
They give the quarterback a versatile and reliable option when throwing the ball, but also give the offense an extra blocker when running outside. Their speed, hands, and ability to run various routes are key for success in this position.
Players who have been successful at this position include:
Wayne Chrebet: 580 receptions, 7,365 yards, and 41 touchdowns over his 11-year career
Ernest Givins: 571 receptions, 8,215 yards, 49 touchdowns over his 10-year career
Larry Fitzgerald: 1,432 receptions, 17,492 yards, 121 touchdowns over his 17-year career
Juju Smith-Schuster: 67 receptions, 909 yards, 3 touchdowns over his 5-year career
Davante Adams: 75 receptions, 788 yards, 9 touchdowns over his 10-year career
Slot receivers have been an important part of the game for many decades now. They are an integral part of the offense, and are a vital component to any NFL team.