The New York Giants have released wide receiver Darius Slayton, ending the seven-year tenure of one of the team’s longest-serving players.
Slayton, 29, was the final remaining member of the Giants’ 2019 draft class, a group that also featured Daniel Jones and Dexter Lawrence. His departure marks another significant change for a team entering a new era under head coach John Harbaugh.
Giants Release Darius Slayton
The Giants decided to move on from Darius Slayton after a difficult offseason for the veteran receiver. Slayton missed the entire spring offseason program after undergoing double sports hernia surgery and got off to a slow start during the summer.
The veteran wideout was scheduled to earn $12.5 million in 2026. His release gives the Giants approximately $3.2 million in salary-cap savings, although the team remains responsible for substantial dead money because of guarantees already paid.
Slayton acknowledged his departure in a post on X, thanking the organization for his seven seasons in New York and expressing excitement about what comes next in his career.
Why Did the Giants Move on From Slayton?
Slayton’s position on the roster became increasingly difficult to secure as the Giants added more options at wide receiver.
Rookie Malachi Fields emerged during the offseason, while Odell Beckham Jr. made a surprise return to the organization. Darnell Mooney also remains part of the team’s receiving group, creating more competition for playing time.
Slayton also struggled during the previous season, with drops continuing to be an issue throughout his career. Although he was viewed as a valuable locker-room presence, the Giants needed more consistent production from their veteran receiver.
His performance in the final preseason game against the Jets did little to strengthen his case, as he finished without a reception despite receiving extended playing time.
Giants Depth Chart at Wide Receiver
Slayton’s release significantly changes the Giants depth chart at wide receiver heading into Week 1.
Malik Nabers is expected to remain the centerpiece of the passing attack, assuming he is cleared to play after recovering from ACL and meniscus surgery on his right knee.
Rookie Malachi Fields is also expected to have a major role, potentially joining Nabers in two-receiver formations. Beckham and Mooney are expected to contribute in three-receiver sets and other offensive packages.
The Giants could also turn to Braxton Berrios, who is currently on the practice squad and is expected to handle punt-return duties.
Expected Giants WR Group
- Malik Nabers
- Malachi Fields
- Odell Beckham Jr.
- Darnell Mooney
- Braxton Berrios as a potential elevation from the practice squad
The changes leave the giant receiving corps looking considerably different from the group that opened previous seasons with Slayton as a key deep-threat option.
What Comes Next for Darius Slayton?
Despite his release, Slayton should attract interest from teams looking for veteran depth and speed at wide receiver. His seven seasons of NFL experience could make him an appealing option for clubs dealing with injuries or seeking an experienced rotational receiver.
Slayton now enters the next stage of his career after spending his entire NFL tenure with the Giants.
For New York, meanwhile, the decision reflects a broader effort to reshape the roster and maximize opportunities for younger players and newly acquired talent.
The Darius Slayton era in New York is officially over, and the Giants’ revamped Giants depth chart at wide receiver will be one of the areas to watch closely when the 2026 season begins.
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