Veteran cornerback Darius Slay was correct: He was indeed a cut candidate.
The Philadelphia Eagles are releasing Slay after five seasons, NFL Network Insider Ian Rapoport reported on Monday, per a source informed of the decision.
Designating Slay a post-June 1 cut would save Philly $4.3 million on the salary cap in 2025 -- they must carry his $13.8 million cap figure until June.
A six-time Pro Bowler, Slay played a key role in the Eagles getting to two Super Bowls, winning one. In five years in Philadelphia, the veteran compiled nine interceptions, 56 passes defended and 272 tackles. With rookies Quinyon Mitchell and Cooper DeJean shining, Slay became expendable.
The 34-year-old said last month that he planned to play one more season before retiring. He hoped to remain in Philly, even on a reworked deal. Slay's other preference would be a return to Detroit, where he spent his first seven seasons in the NFL.
The Eagles have several high-profile defenders heading toward free agency, including defensive linemen Milton Williams and Josh Sweat and linebacker Zack Baun. In order to attempt to keep one or more, general manager Howie Roseman must find the cap space. Slay becomes the first casualty in Philly making room.
