The Philadelphia Eagles have released cornerback Darius Slay after five impactful seasons with
the team. Acquired from the Detroit Lions in a 2020 trade, Slay quickly became a cornerstone of
the Eagles’ defense, earning multiple accolades and contributing significantly to the team’s
success.
Restoring Stability at Cornerback
For years after the departure of Pro Bowl cornerback Asante Samuel following the 2011 season,
the Eagles struggled to find consistency at the position. Philadelphia cycled through numerous
defensive backs, but none provided the stability and high-level play the team needed—until Slay
arrived in 2020. From the moment he stepped onto the field in midnight green, he brought
reliability to the secondary, shutting down top receivers and leading the defense with his veteran
presence.
Slay’s Impact on the Eagles
2020 Season: Establishing Leadership
In his first season with the Eagles, Slay started 15 games, recording 59 total tackles and six
passes defended. His veteran presence and leadership were invaluable to a young secondary,
setting the tone for the defense.
2021 Season: Playmaking Excellence
The 2021 season showcased Slay’s playmaking abilities. He notched three interceptions,
including a memorable 82-yard return for a touchdown against the Denver Broncos.
Additionally, he recovered two fumbles, returning one for a 33-yard touchdown against his
former team, the Detroit Lions. These performances earned him NFC Defensive Player of the
Week honors and a Pro Bowl selection.
2022 Season: Defensive Consistency
Slay continued to play at a high level in 2022, starting all 17 games and contributing 55 tackles,
three interceptions, and 14 passes defended. His efforts were pivotal in the Eagles’ journey to
Super Bowl LVII, where they narrowly fell to the Kansas City Chiefs.
2023 Season: Veteran Leadership
As one of the longest-tenured defensive backs in the league, Slay recorded 57 tackles, two
interceptions, and 14 passes defended in 12 games during the 2023 season. His leadership
was instrumental in the development of younger defensive backs, and he earned his sixth
career Pro Bowl nod.
2024 Season: Championship Triumph and Mentorship
Slay played a key role in the Eagles’ Super Bowl LIX victory, tallying 49 tackles, 13 passes
defended, and a forced fumble in the regular season. More importantly, he took on the role of
mentor for Philadelphia’s talented rookie cornerbacks, Quinyon Mitchell and Cooper DeJean.
His guidance helped shape them into promising young stars, ensuring the Eagles’ secondary
remained strong for years to come.
Legacy in Philadelphia
Over five seasons in Philadelphia, Slay totaled 272 tackles, 11 interceptions, and 61 passes
defended. More than just a shutdown corner, he was a leader, a mentor, and a key figure in re-
establishing stability at the cornerback position. As he now enters free agency, Slay’s impact on
the Eagles’ defense will be felt long after his departure, especially in the development of Mitchell
and DeJean.
Philadelphia fans will always remember “Big Play Slay” for his ability to change games, his
leadership, and the championship he helped bring to the city
