The Philadelphia Eagles ended their 2024 campaign on a high note. Nick Sirianni, who took over as head coach in 2021, led them to their first Lombardi Trophy since Super Bowl LII.
However, as the offseason begins, the Eagles have decided to cut ties with one of their veteran cornerbacks.
Fans React to Philadelphia Eagles Parting Ways With CB Darius Slay
According to reports, the Eagles have decided to release six-time Pro Bowl cornerback Darius Slay. The Detroit Lions drafted him with the 36th overall pick in the 2013 NFL Draft. Slay was traded to the Eagles in 2020 in exchange for a fourth- and fifth-round pick.
ESPN’s Adam Schefter reported on X that the Eagles are moving on from Slay after five seasons. If he is designated as a post-June 1 release, the team will save $4.3 million against the salary cap.
“Eagles are releasing six-time pro bowl CB Darius Slay, per sources. If he is designated a post-June 1 release, the cap Eagles will save $4.3 million against the cap,” Schefter tweeted
Eagles are releasing six-time Pro-Bowl CB Darius Slay, per sources.
If he is designated a post-June 1 release, the Eagles will save $4.3 million against the cap. pic.twitter.com/tUq4ScIK79
— Adam Schefter (@AdamSchefter) March 3, 2025
NFL fans took to social media to share their reactions to Slay’s release.
“Unfortunate cap casualty, reigns finally turned over to Quinyon Mitchell & Cooper DeJean. We’ll see how this changing of the guard plays out,” one fan commented.
“Darius Slay went out a hero. Forever a Philly legend,” another fan wrote.
“Damn, kinda shocked. Thought they would let him retire, not just cut him,” one fan said.
“Big veteran presence on the market. The younger studs pushed him out of Philly,” another wrote.
“He is Philadelphia and bleeds green. Ty, Slay. We will miss you,” one fan said.
“Damn. Thank you, Slay,” another commented.
Last month, Slay stated that he wanted to play one more season before retiring. The 34-year-old hoped to finish his career in Philadelphia, but the team had other plans. Now, he will have to search for a new home in free agency.
Why Did the Eagles Release Darius Slay?
One of the biggest reasons the Eagles may have been comfortable releasing Slay is the young talent they have at cornerback. Rookies Quinyon Mitchell and Cooper DeJean proved last season that they are ready for starting roles.
Mitchell played 16 games during his rookie campaign, finishing with 46 tackles and 12 passes defended in the regular season.
DeJean also played in 16 games, starting nine. He recorded 51 tackles, six passes defended, and a pick-six in the Eagles’ Super Bowl victory against the Chiefs.
The emergence of these rookies made it easier for Philadelphia to move on from Slay. Now, the veteran cornerback will hit the free-agent market, where a team looking for experience in the secondary could bring him in.