After an impressive 13 years in the NFL, former Philadelphia Eagles cornerback Darius Slay has announced his retirement from the game of football. The 35-year-old shared the following post on social media:
Along with this message:
Dear football, I wanna thank you for all you’ve done for me. I’ve been blessed to play the game I loved since I was 5yrs old for an amazing 13yrs at the highest level. Football was my peace, my joy, my everything. This game put me in a position to help take care of my family and loved ones and I’m forever grateful. It’s hard to say goodbye, but God has a new chapter for me and I’m ready to turn the page and start my new journey. To all my BigPlay fans, I will always appreciate the love and support y’all have given to me. I couldn’t have done it without you. Just A kid from Brunswick, GA with BIG dreams…✊🏽
BigPlay on and off the field! We Out✌🏾
Slay spent seven year with the Detroit Lions before being traded in 2020 to Philly, where he earned three more Pro Bowls, to add to the two he already had, and also won Super Bow LIXl. After winning a ring, Slay went on to play for the Pittsburgh Steelers in 2025, and was eventually released and picked up by the Buffalo Bills — the veteran CB, however, had no intention of playing for anyone but Philadelphia, so he ultimately never reported to the team that claimed him. (The Eagles also put a claim in on him but the Bills were one spot ahead in the waiver wire order.)
During his time with the Eagles, Slay recorded 272 total tackles, 56 pass breakups, nine interceptions, three fumble recoveries, four TDs off turnovers, and one forced fumble. His passer ratings allowed by season while in Philly (per Pro Football Reference):
- 2020 — 111.9
- 2021 — 74.4
- 2022 — 85.0
- 2023 — 80.2
- 2024 — 81.9
Slay played arguably the most dominant game of his Eagles tenure when he absolutely locked up Justin Jefferson in Week 2 of the 2022 season. That performance earned him his final Defensive Player of the Week award in his career.
The fun-loving Slay was an interesting personality to cover and he was well-liked by his teammates. He’ll always be warmly welcomed in Philly.
What’s your favorite Big Play Slay moment? Let’s celebrate the career of this All-Pro in the comments.
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