A slot receiver is a wide receiver that lines up behind the line of scrimmage. This allows the offense to attack all three levels of the defense — linebackers, secondary and linemen.

The slot position is one of the most popular in the NFL today, and it’s no wonder — the slot receiver has a unique skill set that many teams utilize throughout the game. It’s a skill that combines speed, hands and a strong ability to move in space, making them a difficult player for opposing teams to tackle.

Oftentimes, slot receivers are used in running plays such as pitch plays and reverses. This is because they are called into pre-snap motion by the quarterback before they receive the ball, giving them plenty of time to move into open space.

Another way the slot receiver can make a big impact is by carrying the ball from time to time. This can help the team run out of formations that don’t allow the offense to use its best wideouts, such as a slant or a go route.

The slot position has been a hot commodity in the NFL for several decades now, and a number of players have paved the way for it. These include Tyreek Hill, Cole Beasley, Keenan Allen and Tyler Lockett.