Darius Slay’s Steelers Struggles Highlight Why the Eagles Moved On - But Is a Reunion Still in Play?
When the Philadelphia Eagles released veteran cornerback Darius Slay back in March, it raised more than a few eyebrows. Slay had been a cornerstone of their secondary, a vocal leader, and a key part of the team’s NFC Championship runs. But fast forward to Week 13 of the 2025 season, and the Eagles’ decision is looking more and more like the right one.
Slay’s lone season with the Pittsburgh Steelers hasn’t gone according to plan - not for the team, and certainly not for the player. The numbers tell the story: 28 receptions allowed on 40 targets, 396 yards surrendered, three touchdowns, and a passer rating allowed of 126.7 - a career worst.
According to Pro Football Focus, his 58.6 coverage grade is on pace to be the third-lowest of his career. And after another rough outing, the Steelers finally made the call to bench him.
For a player who once locked down top receivers and helped guide the Eagles to a Super Bowl title, this version of Slay looks like a shadow of his former self. The instincts are still there, but the burst, the recovery speed, the ability to close - they’ve all taken a step back.
At 34, that’s not unusual. But it does raise the question: what’s next?
Could a Philly Reunion Be on the Horizon?
Now, let’s be clear - Slay’s current form isn’t the kind of production you build a secondary around. But if the Steelers decide to move on from him, the idea of a short-term reunion with the Eagles isn’t as far-fetched as it might seem.
Philadelphia’s secondary has been hit with injuries and inconsistency this season. Depth has been tested, and having a veteran like Slay - someone who knows the system, knows the locker room, and still carries the respect of his former teammates - could be valuable. Not as a starter, necessarily, but as a depth piece and mentor.
Even if he finishes out the year in Pittsburgh, the door isn’t closed. Slay is approaching 35, and retirement is a real possibility.
If he decides to hang up the cleats, don’t be surprised if he signs a one-day contract to retire as an Eagle. That’s the franchise where he made his biggest impact, and where his legacy was cemented.
A Future Beyond the Field?
There’s also a third path - one that doesn’t involve suiting up again. Slay’s leadership has never been in question.
He’s been a vocal presence in every locker room he’s been in, and his football IQ is off the charts. If this is the end of his playing days, a transition into coaching or a player development role isn’t out of the question.
The Eagles have a history of keeping their veteran leaders around in some capacity - think Brandon Graham’s post-retirement ambitions. Slay could follow a similar route.
Helping to mentor the next generation of Eagles corners? That feels like a natural fit.
Howie Roseman’s Playbook Is Always Open
One thing we know about Eagles GM Howie Roseman: he’s never afraid to make a move, especially when it comes to players who’ve helped build the culture in Philly. Whether it’s bringing back veterans for another run or finding ways to keep them involved off the field, Roseman has shown a knack for honoring the franchise’s core leaders.
So while Slay’s current stint in Pittsburgh hasn’t gone the way he or the Steelers hoped, it may have opened the door for a different kind of opportunity - one that circles back to the team where he made his name.
Keep an eye on how things unfold in Pittsburgh. Because whether it’s as a player, mentor, or future coach, Darius Slay’s story with the Eagles might not be finished just yet.