Darius Slay is an American football player who currently plays as a cornerback for the Philadelphia Eagles of the National Football League (NFL). He was born on January 1, 1991, in Brunswick, Georgia.
High school
Slay attended Brunswick High School, where he played football as a wide receiver and defensive back. He was a three-sport athlete, also playing basketball and running track. In his senior year, Slay was named the Region 3-AAAAA Player of the Year and a Class 5A All-State selection.
College
After high school, Slay attended Itawamba Community College in Mississippi, where he played football for two seasons. In his sophomore year, he recorded 37 tackles, three interceptions, and nine pass breakups
Draft
In 2013, Slay was drafted in the second round (36th overall) of the NFL Draft by the Detroit Lions. He spent the first six seasons of his NFL career with the Lions, where he became one of the best cornerbacks in the league. During his time with the Lions, Slay was selected to the Pro Bowl three times (2014, 2015, and 2017) and named a First-Team All-Pro in 2017.
Trade
In March 2020, Slay was traded to the Philadelphia Eagles in exchange for two draft picks. In his first season with the Eagles, Slay started all 15 games he played in, recording 60 tackles, one interception, and nine pass breakups.
Off the field, Slay is known for his philanthropy work. He has held annual football camps for children in his hometown of Brunswick, Georgia, and has donated money to various charitable causes, including the Boys and Girls Club.
Overall, Darius Slay is regarded as one of the top cornerbacks in the NFL and has earned a reputation for his speed, agility, and ability to shut down opposing receivers.
Career
Darius Slay began his football career in college, playing for Itawamba Community College in Mississippi. He played there for two seasons, where he recorded 37 tackles, three interceptions, and nine pass breakups in his sophomore year. His performance caught the attention of NFL scouts, and he was drafted in the second round (36th overall) of the 2013 NFL Draft by the Detroit Lions.
During his six seasons with the Lions, Slay established himself as one of the top cornerbacks in the league. He played in 94 games, starting 90 of them, and recorded 347 tackles, 104 passes defended, 19 interceptions, and 1 touchdown. He was selected to the Pro Bowl three times (2014, 2015, and 2017) and was named a First-Team All-Pro in 2017.
In March 2020, Slay was traded to the Philadelphia Eagles in exchange for two draft picks. In his first season with the Eagles, Slay started all 15 games he played in, recording 60 tackles, one interception, and nine pass breakups.
Overall, Slay has been recognized as a highly skilled cornerback with excellent speed, agility, and coverage skills. He is known for his ability to shut down opposing receivers and has consistently been one of the top players at his position throughout his career
