Eagles 'Big-Play' Darius Slay Slowing Down? 'The Forgotten Guy'

Philadelphia Eagles cornerback Darius Slay endured criticism following the 2022 season, although recent rankings have said he is still one of the best at his position.

At one point this offseason, it looked like the partnership between the Philadelphia Eagles and cornerback Darius Slay was at an end. After failing to negotiate an extension, the Eagles permitted Slay to seek a trade before a report announced their intention to release him. 

But that release never came, as the two sides agreed to a two-year contract extension after an odd back-and-forth that made it seem like his departure was inevitable.

Luckily for the Eagles, they locked down a Pro Bowl cornerback for another two seasons, who, despite being 32 years old, is still one of the NFL's best at his position. ESPN recently ranked the top-10 cornerbacks in the league based on feedback from coaches, scouts, and executives, and Slay came in at No. 5. 

This was just one spot behind Jaire Alexander of the Green Bay Packers and two spots below Jalen Ramsey of the Miami Dolphins.

"He's always the forgotten guy in that top group of corners, but he's been a benchmark, honestly," one evaluator told ESPN about Slay. "His game has held up really well. Can still really run, physical, wants the big matchup, always consistent."

That "forgotten" status can be shown by the fact that this was the first time Slay has been in the top-five of ESPN's cornerback rankings since 2020. It comes after the 32-year-old played in every game for Philly last season, recording 55 tackles, three interceptions and 14 passes defended.

Despite being selected for his fifth Pro Bowl, Slay still had his fair share of critics during the season. Some have said that Slay slowed down throughout the year and was even "picked on" by the Kansas City Chiefs in the Super Bowl loss. Whether the criticism is fair or not, a long season like the one Slay endured would inevitably produce a few down performances considering his age.

Yet, despite Slay allowing three receptions for 23 yards and a touchdown in the Super Bowl, the Eagles have brought him back. 

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