Could Darius Slay Return to Eagles? Latest NFL Rumors After Steelers Release CB

After being released by the Pittsburgh Steelers on Tuesday, veteran cornerback Darius Slay reportedly could look to return to a familiar landing spot.

According to John Clark of NBC Sports Philadelphia, there is "mutual interest" between Slay and the Philadelphia Eagles if he clears waivers. Slay played for the Eagles from 2020 to 2024, winning his first career Super Bowl title last season.

Slay had signed a one-year, $10 million deal with the Steelers in free agency. He started nine games for Pittsburgh, though he missed the Week 11 matchup against the Cincinnati Bengals due to a concussion suffered the previous week in a loss against the Los Angeles Chargers.

When he returned for the team's Week 12 game against the Chicago Bears, he came off the bench and played just 20 snaps, his lowest of the season besides the Chargers game when he exited early, per ESPN's Brooke Pryor.

In his brief time with the Steelers, Slay recorded 36 total tackles, three passes defended and a fumble recovery. Following his release, Pittsburgh will be alternating its starting cornerback opposite Joey Porter Jr. between former undrafted free agent James Pierre, who is in concussion protocol, and veteran Asante Samuel Jr., who was signed to the active roster from the practice squad.

The Eagles have a ton of talent on defense, including promising young cornerbacks Quinyon Mitchell and Cooper DeJean. Still, they rank 25th in the NFL with 347.2 yards allowed per game. The defending Super Bowl champs are hoping to shore up any holes on the roster as they prepare to chase a second straight title, so it makes sense that they would be interested in bringing back Slay.

The 34-year-old would likely have multiple suitors if he clears waivers and becomes a free agent, but a reunion with the Eagles could help him add another championship ring to his mantle.