A slot is a narrow opening or groove in something, such as an automobile or a computer. A slot is also a place where an expansion card can be added to a computer or other device, which will allow that computer to do a specialized task.

The term “slot receiver” refers to a wide receiver who lines up in the slot, which is the space between the outermost tackle (or tight end) and the outside receiver. The slot receiver is usually a little shorter and smaller than an outside wide receiver, but he has similar route-running skills. He is often referred to as a “big target” because he can catch the ball from a variety of positions on the field.

Historically, slot receivers have been seen as the third best receiver on an offense because they don’t have the same responsibility as the other two wide receivers, but in recent years they have become more important and versatile than ever before. In fact, some teams utilize them more than their outside receivers, which makes them a valuable part of any football team.

Slot receivers are known for their elusiveness and quickness, as well as their ability to make big plays on the ground. They are excellent blockers, too, and they can help create sweeps and slants on running plays.

They also have great chemistry with their quarterback, which helps them be even more effective. This is because they are able to find open space and run routes that the quarterback has never considered before.

When a slot receiver is running a play, it is crucial for him to know where he will be lining up before the snap. This allows him to prepare to block defensive players he may not expect to encounter, including nickelbacks, outside linebackers, and safeties. He needs to block on the inside and outside of the slot, and he should also be able to chip and crack back block if necessary.

He will likely have a pre-snap motion that allows him to quickly get out of the way of defensive players and prevent them from tagging him before he can get the ball in his hands. He can also act as a decoy in the passing game, since he can easily run routes that other wide receivers cannot without getting hit by defenders.

As a result, the Slot receiver can be one of the most difficult targets to defend in the NFL today. Many of the top receivers in the league thrive in this role, such as Tyreek Hill, Cole Beasley, and Keenan Allen.

In addition to his responsibilities, the slot receiver must have strong route-running skills. This means he must be able to run a variety of different passing routes that can confuse defenders, such as inside and outside routes. He must also be able to use his speed to get past a defender before he can stop, and he must have good chemistry with the quarterback so he can get a read on him and make an accurate pass.