Originally, a slot was an opening in the wings of an airplane, but now it refers to a space in a computer where you can insert an expansion board. It can be used for anything from an extra hard drive to a video card.

The slot receiver is one of the most important positions in the NFL, and a crucial part of every team’s passing game. They give quarterbacks a versatile wideout that can catch passes behind the line of scrimmage and also help out in running plays by blocking defenders.

They are a critical part of the offense, and are starting to make an impact in recent seasons. They have a number of skills that are crucial for the role, including speed, route running and chemistry with the quarterback.

Their size and ability to run the ball makes them a key component of a team’s offensive arsenal, as they can stretch out the field to take on all three levels of the defense. However, this is not the only reason they are so important: They also allow quarterbacks to have more versatility with their playmaking, allowing them to attack all different types of defenses in the passing game.

The slot position was created by the Oakland Raiders in 1963 under the coaching of Sid Gillman, and it has stayed with the Raiders ever since. It has helped the Raiders become an extremely successful team over the years, and now many teams across the league rely on slot receivers to complement their offenses.

A slot receiver is typically smaller and shorter than a traditional outside wideout, but they still have the speed to get open and make big plays in the open field. Their chemistry with the quarterback is vital to their success, and they should be extremely accurate with their routes.

Often, slot receivers will have to work with a fullback or a tight end on certain plays. This makes them have to be more accurate with their timing and know how to block, as well.

Their size can vary, but they tend to be shorter than most wideouts and have great hands. They are also very physical, and can be tough to tackle when they need to.

They will usually line up close to the middle of the field, so they are a valuable part of the offensive line as well. This allows them to be a great part of the blocking game, especially on running plays that go to the outside of the field.

In the NFL, slot receivers have become so popular that they have forced defenses to rethink their coverage. In fact, they are now the second most targeted position on the field, after the outside receiver.

Unlike other wide receivers, slot receivers have to run a variety of routes. This means they need to be able to run to the inside, outside, deep and short, which requires precise timing and route running.

They also need to have a good deal of chemistry with the quarterback, as they will be on the field with him quite often. This chemistry is important for their overall success, and it’s one of the main reasons they are so popular today.