When the Pittsburgh Steelers signed cornerback Darius Slay to a one-year, $10 million deal, it raised some eyebrows around the league. Slay has been one of the NFL’s elite cornerbacks for over a decade, but now at 34 years old, questions about his longevity and ability to perform at a high level remain. Despite the age concerns, Slay had an impressive 2024 season with the Philadelphia Eagles, playing a crucial role in their Super Bowl run.
The Eagles boasted a younger secondary and were comfortable moving on from Slay, opting to bring in fresh talent for the future. This decision opened the door for Slay to join the Steelers, where he arrives with a clear mission: to mentor the team’s promising young cornerback, Joey Porter Jr., and to prove he still has the skill and speed of a top-tier cornerback.
While 34 is considered old for a cornerback in the NFL, Slay remains confident in his abilities. On the SNR Drive podcast with Dale Lolley and Matt Williamson, he expressed that he can still keep up with the league’s fastest and most talented wide receivers. However, he also acknowledged some uncertainty about whether the Steelers’ coaching staff will fully trust him in coverage against the number one receivers on opposing teams
Slay’s arrival in Pittsburgh adds valuable veteran experience to a young secondary, and his hunger to prove he still has prime cornerback play left could be a key asset for the Steelers’ defense in 2025. If he can stay healthy and perform at a high level, Slay could provide leadership and stability for the Steelers while helping Porter develop into a future star.
Slay is no longer the same dominant force he was during his prime years with the Detroit Lions or even his standout tenure with the Eagles. Time and wear have inevitably taken a toll, and he isn’t quite the player who used to consistently lock down top receivers with unmatched precision and speed.
However, despite this, Slay remains fully confident in his ability to contribute meaningfully to the Steelers. He brings to Steel City not just experience, but invaluable veteran leadership—a presence in the secondary that can disrupt opposing offenses and provide a stabilizing influence for a young defensive unit.
The Steelers’ secondary faced significant challenges throughout the 2024 season, showing vulnerability in key moments that ultimately impacted their overall defensive performance. Recognizing the urgent need to shore up the back end of their defense, the front office made a strategic decision to bring in a seasoned player who could make an immediate difference.
Committing $10 million to Slay was viewed as a calculated move to inject toughness, savvy, and leadership into the secondary. It wasn’t just about pure athleticism; it was about adding a player with the know-how to read offenses, communicate effectively, and mentor emerging talent.
Steelers’ Joey Porter Jr. Should Take A Massive Step Working With Slay
While Slay may not be the same player he once was athletically, his football intelligence and competitive spirit remain sharp. The Steelers believe that his presence will make opposing quarterbacks think twice and will help elevate the entire secondary to a higher level of play in the upcoming season.
Porter’s first two seasons gave Steelers fans plenty to be excited about. Now, with Slay joining Pittsburgh, he’s set to play a pivotal role in Porter’s development. Slay is eager to help Porter break out in the 2025 season. As Porter enters his third year in the Steel City, having Slay by his side is a major boost for both him and the Steelers.
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