Eagles’ Bold Move: Releasing Darius Slay
The Philadelphia Eagles made a significant move by releasing cornerback Darius Slay, unlocking $4.32 million in cap space with a post-June 1 designation. Despite entering his 34th year in January, Slay is fresh off an impressive season, making him a valuable asset for potential suitors like the Buffalo Bills.
A Proven Pro Bowler
Darius Slay boasts an impressive resume, being a six-time Pro Bowler and earning first-team All-Pro honors in 2017. During the regular season, he played a substantial 81 percent of defensive snaps, starting in 14 games. His presence was even more pronounced in the postseason, where he participated in 90.84 percent of snaps during the team’s triumphant Super Bowl run.
Defying Age with Stellar Performance
While conventional wisdom might suggest that a 34-year-old cornerback is past his prime, Slay defied expectations in 2024. He maintained his performance level by giving up some of the lowest yards per target and yards per completion of his career. Additionally, he held opposing quarterbacks to a mere 54.7 completion percentage when targeted, showcasing his prowess on the field. Player Profiler ranked him as the fourth-best cornerback in coverage rating, solidifying his reputation as a top-tier player.
Future Uncertainty
Although Christian Benford has established himself as a stellar boundary corner for the Eagles, the return of Rasul Douglas remains uncertain. The release of Darius Slay opens up intriguing possibilities for the team’s defensive strategy moving forward.
