A Super Bowl-winning cornerback is calling it a career after 13 seasons. Darius Slay has officially announced his retirement from the NFL.
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Slay, who only played in 10 games last season due to a personal decision, announced the news with a reel on Instagram. He showed off all of the jerseys he wore during his career and mixed in a compilation of highlights from his career.
"Dear football, I wanna thank you for all you've done for me," Slay wrote. "I've been blessed to play the game I loved since I was 5 yrs old for an amazing 13 yrs at the highest level. Football was my peace, my joy, my everything. This game put me in a position to help take care of my family and loved ones and I'm forever grateful.
"It's hard to say goodbye, but God has a new chapter for me and I'm ready to turn the page and start my new journey. To all my BigPlay fans, I will always appreciate the love and support y'all have given to me. I couldn't have done it without you. Just A kid from Brunswick, GA with BIG dreams... (Fist emoji) BigPlay on and off the field!"
Slay entered the NFL as a second-round pick in the 2013 Draft. He started his career with the Detroit Lions and became an important part of the defense. He started 94 of the 103 games in which he appeared for the NFC North team, and he tallied 19 interceptions, one forced fumble, one sack, and 347 combined tackles.
Slay's best season with the Lions came in 2017. He led the league with eight interceptions and 26 passes defensed. He earned his first trip to the Pro Bowl and earned First-Team All-Pro honors.
The veteran cornerback departed the Lions after seven seasons, and he joined the Eagles in 2020. The NFC East gave up a third-round pick and a fifth-round pick to acquire his services.
This trade paid dividends as Slay spent five seasons in Philadelphia. He started 73 games and registered nine more interceptions. He also led the league in 2021 with two fumble return touchdowns for a total of 116 yards. He also helped the Eagles defeat the Eagles in Super Bowl 59.
Slay only played one more season before retiring. He joined the Steelers to start the 2025 season, and he suited up for 10 games. However, he and the Steelers mutually agreed to part ways in December.
The Bills claimed him on waivers, but he informed the team that he would not report. He stayed true to his word and ultimately retired after the season ended.
