Lions Fans Want Reunion with CB Darius Slay
Philadelphia Eagles cornerback Darius Slay is among the most popular players in the National Football League.
Supporters of the Detroit Lions recall Slay being a talented defensive back who was not shy about being himself and executed at a high level during his seven-year stint in Motown.
Detroit selected Slay in the second round (No. 36 overall) in the 2013 NFL Draft. He stayed in Detroit through 2019, and was traded by former general manager Bob Quinn after not being able to reach a contract extension.
Slay and former Lions head coach Matt Patricia did not mesh well together, especially after he was called out in front of the entire team, causing a rift that was never repaired.
After three seasons with the Eagles, the team is reportedly allowing the veteran defensive back to seek a trade.
The team is still hopeful the 32-year-old will return for a fourth season.
Slay's contract terms may make it more challenging to return in 2023. He is currently in the final year of a three-year, $50 million contract.
A cap number in 2023 of over $26 million may be prohibitive, causing the Eagles to potentially ask Slay to renegotiate his deal.
Slay played in all 17 games in 2022, and recorded 55 tackles, 14 pass deflections and three interceptions.
The team could potentially add Patricia to the coaching staff, causing some to wonder how Slay would react.
Supporters of the Lions took to social media to express their desire for Detroit to take another look at a former fan favorite.
Here is a sample of the reaction online of Lions supporters who want to see Slay return to Motown.