Almost one month after winning the Super Bowl, the Philadelphia Eagles have made a decision regarding one of Jalen Hurts’ veteran teammates for next season.
The reigning Super Bowl champions continue shaping their roster for the upcoming NFL season, with a major decision coming to light on Monday. According to NFL insider Ian Rapoport, the Philadelphia Eagles have released veteran Jalen Hurts teammate Darius Slay, a six-time Pro Bowler and key member of the team’s defense.
Slay played a crucial role in Nick Sirianni’s defensive scheme, making key tackles that helped secure last season’s Super Bowl title. Now, with his absence, Hurts and his teammates must adjust to this setback while awaiting the front office’s decision on his replacement.
“Eagles are releasing six-time Pro-Bowl CB Darius Slay, per sources. If he is designated a post-June 1 release, the Eagles will save $4.3 million against the cap,” Rapoport reported on X.
With this move, the Eagles have parted ways with another player following the announcement that offensive lineman Nick Gates would not be returning. With both players off the roster, the team will look to bring in replacements or provide an opportunity for a young player to step up.
Nolan Smith Jr. #3 and Darius Slay Jr. #2 of the Philadelphia Eagles react against the Los Angeles Rams during the fourth quarter in the NFC Divisional Playoff at Lincoln Financial Field on January 19, 2025 in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania.
Slay’s impact on the Eagles
Darius Slay’s time with the Eagles has come to an end, but his contributions to the team’s defense over the past five seasons were undeniable. A key presence in the secondary, Slay played a pivotal role in the Eagles’ success, appearing in 83 combined regular-season and playoff games.
During his tenure, Slay helped the Eagles reach the postseason in four of his five years, including two Super Bowl appearances and a championship victory. His impact on the field was highlighted by 272 combined tackles, nine interceptions, and 200 return yards off interceptions, along with 11 tackles for loss. As he departs, he leaves behind a legacy as a crucial piece of Philadelphia’s defensive unit and a player who helped deliver a Super Bowl title to the city.
Eagles’ latest addition
Scott Loeffler is set to work with Hurts, stepping in to fill the void left by Doug Nussmeier’s departure this offseason. He was expected to join the New Orleans Saints as offensive coordinator, but he decided to accept the Eagles proposal to coach their quaterback.