The Philadelphia Eagles released cornerback Darius Slay back in March, leading to his signing a one-year deal with the Pittsburgh Steelers. Although not every Philly fan was thrilled about the Eagles' decision, cutting ties with Slay has proven to be the right call, highlighted by what happened in Week 13.
Slay's time in the Steel City has been forgettable at best. He's provided the Steelers with Swiss Cheese-like coverage in the secondary, allowing 28 catches on 40 targets for 396 yards, three touchdowns, and a personal-worst 126.7 passer rating allowed. If nothing changes, his 58.6 coverage grade is on track for the third-worst effort of his career, according to Pro Football Focus. If that wasn't bad enough, Pittsburgh finally benched the ex-Eagle over the weekend.
Slay more than earned Sunday's benching, playing at the worst level of his career and looking nothing like the key piece that helped the Eagles win two NFC titles and a Super Bowl during his tenure. At the same time, the struggles have opened up the possibility that Slay and the Eagles are going to reunite in the future. Whether the Steelers cut the veteran or the corner opts to leave at the end of the year is up for debate.
Darius Slay's Steelers Benching Opens Door for Philly Reunion
If Slay is cut, the Eagles would be wise to sign the veteran and bring him back into the fold as potential depth. Considering Philly's injuries and questions in the secondary, no question that taking a flyer on such a familiar face would be a wise decision.
If Slay finishes out the season with the Steelers, an offseason reunion could still be on the table. The veteran defender is about to turn 35 years old, meaning retirement will be on the table soon. He could return to the Eagles on a one-year deal to wrap up his career, or maybe he'll sign a one-day contract to retire with the franchise where he achieved the most success.
Another option the Eagles could explore with a former team leader could be bringing in Slay in a coaching role. Having Slay's experience helping a young secondary makes a great deal of sense if this is the end of the defender's career. It'd be similar to how Brandon Graham made it clear he wanted to stay around the Eagles post-retirement (even if that didn't last).
Eagles general manager Howie Roseman isn't shy when it comes to making moves or honoring former veteran players. Slay getting added to the list of reunions this season or down the line (either as a player or coach) makes a ton of sense, meaning Philly fans should keep an eye on him to see how the rest of his Steelers tenure unfolds.