It was just over 24 hours ago that Darius Slay’s three-year-run with the Philadelphia Eagles seemed to be all but over.
Reports broke that Slay was going to be released ahead of the new league year in order for the defending NFC Champions to become salary cap compliant. Once the new league year opened and an official release wasn’t announced, something seemed to be in the works behind the scenes.
That’s now come to fruition. The Eagles announced Thursday evening that they have agreed to a two-year contract extension with Slay. According to NFL Media’s Ian Rapoport, it’s worth $42 million with $23 million guaranteed. This keeps the Pro Bowl cornerback in Philadelphia through the 2025 season.
From a financial standpoint, the $21 million per year represents a high-water mark for a cornerback in the history of the NFL.
Related: Sportsnaut’s NFL free agent tracker with grades
Philadelphia Eagles continue to retain key players
The Eagles have lost key starters in that of running back Miles Sanders, defensive tackle Javon Hargrave, linebacker T.J. Edwards and linebacker Kyzir White in free agency.
However, they have also been able to bring back other core components. In addition to Darius Slay, that includes fellow Pro Bowl cornerback James Bradberry as well as defensive tackle Fletcher Cox and center Jason Kelce.
- Darius Slay stats (2022): 55 tackles, 14 passes defended, 3 INT, 58.2% completion, 83.9 QB rating
With Slay and Bradberry back in the mix, Philadelphia’s cornerback duo rivals any in the league. It also has a majority of the pass rushers back who helped the team rack up 70 tackles a season ago.
As for the loss of Miles Sanders, Philadelphia did sign former Seattle Seahawks first-round pick Rashaad Penny. If the running back is able to stay healthy, he should excel in the backfield with Jalen Hurts.