A slot receiver is a type of receiver who plays in the slot. This type of receiver is elusive and is capable of blocking nickelbacks and outside linebackers. A slot receiver also needs to be able to catch the ball. Read on to learn more about the role of a slot receiver. The first step in becoming a slot receiver is to understand how this type of receiver blocks opposing defenders. Below is an outline of the role of a slot receiver.
Slot receivers need to be elusive
Slot receivers need to be fast and elusive to be effective in the NFL. Their routes are shorter than other wide receivers’, and they need to be able to break in either direction and create separation from the defense. These receivers also need to have good hands, as they will need to be extra quick. In addition, they will need excellent route-running skills, as they will have limited space and must be able to absorb contact from defenders.
In order to be successful as a Slot receiver, players must have a high level of awareness of the field. They must know the positions of their defenders and have advanced blocking skills. This is because Slot receivers serve as a cog in an offense’s blocking scheme.
They block nickelbacks
Slot receivers play an important blocking role and line up near the defensive positions of their opposing team. They typically chip nickelbacks, outside linebackers, and safetyties, but may also be called on to chip defensive ends. This is especially important on outside running plays. Slot receivers are known for their quickness and agility.
A nickelback is smaller than a slot receiver and is the fifth man in a secondary defense. This makes them a great option in zone defenses because they can get to soft-spots faster than a third linebacker. They can also provide coverage against bombs and can keep a fast defender on a slot receiver. However, they are not ideal against the run, and the risk of getting burned is far greater than the reward.
They block outside linebackers
The job of the outside linebacker is to stop passes. They react to play calls by checking to see if the quarterback is drawing a pass, then reacting quickly to block the pass. They must tackle the grass at 45 degrees and attack the ball carrier at least one yard outside the line of scrimmage. They should also chase the ball carrier inside to make a tackle.
They need to be able to catch passes
A Slot receiver is a critical part of the blocking game, lining up near defensive positions and chipping outside linebackers and safeties. In some situations, he may need to chip defensive ends or nickelbacks as well. His role is especially critical on outside running plays.
A slot receiver needs to have excellent hands and good speed to succeed. The slot receiver typically has a shorter, narrower frame than an outside wide receiver. He also needs to have excellent route-running skills, as he will be running extra-short routes with no defenders blocking his path. Because he is smaller, he will have to outrun defenders and absorb a lot of contact.