The slot is a position in the football offense that has become more important as the game has changed. It allows for more motion and shifts in formation, and it helps the quarterback read the defense. It is also a position that requires a special skill set to succeed at it. Some players, like Wes Welker, have excelled at the slot position and paved the way for others to do the same.
The slot receiver is a wide receiver that lines up in the middle of the field and can run routes up, down or out. He is often more involved in the running game than other wide receivers on the team, as well as being a solid blocker. In many ways, the slot is an extension of the linebackers and defensive backs on the team.
When the slot receiver catches the ball, he is usually being handed off to a running play or pitched the ball by the quarterback. This is because he is already in motion before the snap, and the quarterback wants to get him the ball as quickly as possible. This motion also gives the slot receiver a head of steam behind him that can help him run past defenders.