Just last month, Philadelphia Eagles fans dreamed about a potential Darius Slay reunion. Likewise, the former Eagles star cornerback was also reportedly looking forward to getting back to the City of Brotherly Love.
As you may know by now, that wasn't possible. The Buffalo Bills claimed Slay off waivers, so he had no choice but to tell them that he had no intentions to report to the team. The Bills, however, didn't waver, and they didn't release him again.
However, even though a reunion in time for the playoffs won't be possible, that doesn't mean that Slay won't be visiting Philly. His wife, Amber Sarcone, just took to social media to confirm that the Slays will be in attendance for Sunday's Wild Card matchup with the San Francisco 49ers.
"SLAYS ARE COMING TO PHILLY!!!! All is right in the city," Sarcone wrote on X.
Ex-Eagle Darius Slay Will be in Philly for the Playoffs
Although unexpected, it isn't a shock to hear about the Slay Family's plans. The 35-year-old CB has played 13 seasons in the NFL, including five years, three Pro Bowl nods, and a Super Bowl ring in an Eagles jersey. Although he spent more time with the Detroit Lions (seven years), their lack of a playoff berth made Philly an obvious destination to catch postseason action.
It's not what the fans or the team would've wanted, but it will have to do. The Eagles' outside cornerback position has been a major headache this season, with all players not named Quinyon Mitchell being a bit of a liability.
Granted, Slay didn't look sharp in his lone season with the Pittsburgh Steelers. The six-time Pro Bowler dealt with multiple injuries, and his playing time started taking a hit after sustaining a concussion in Week 10. Then, with Asante Samuel Jr. on the mix, there was no need to keep him around.
That being said, Slay is already familiar with defensive coordinator Vic Fangio's system. And, given how Adoree' Jackson and Kelee Ringo have struggled for most of the season, it would've made perfect sense to at least consider giving him a call if he had become available.
The Eagles' secondary will be put to the test on Sunday. 49ers quarterback Brock Purdy isn't afraid to sling the football down the field, and running back Christian McCaffrey's versatility and their strong running game provide plenty of opportunities for big plays, even if speedy wideout Ricky Pearsall is out with a knee injury.
Having the Slays there won't do much to help in anything other than a morale boost. Still, it's nice to know they haven't forgotten about all the love the fans gave him during his successful tenure with the organization. Who knows? Slay might ultimately run it back for another season in Philadelphia next year once he's a free agent in March.