Darius Slay hints at return to Eagles

After the Eagles agreed to a three-year, $38 million contract with corner James Bradberry, the writing appeared to be on the wall for Slay in Philly. However, things are slightly different thanks to a few words typed on social media. 

Theoretically, the Eagles could re-sign Slay to a brand-new contract. Philly used the same strategy last offseason with veteran defensive tackle Fletcher Cox, releasing him in March before agreeing on a new deal less than two weeks later. 

According to insider Derrick Gunn, Slay seeks a three-year, fully guaranteed contract. It's hard to see the Eagles spending big dollars on the 32-year-old Slay, especially if they hope to re-sign safety C.J. Gardner-Johnson after inking Bradberry to a new deal. So, if there's still a chance the two sides could work something out, Slay won't be back unless it's at a considerable discount. 

The Eagles also must consider the cap ramifications. Cutting Slay will still count against the cap even if they bring him back. Letting Slay go now would cost the Eagles $22.4 million in dead money, while a post-June 1 release spreads the dead money over the next two seasons, saving $17.5 million in cap space for 2023. 

It's possible the market for Slay isn't what he hoped, and a return to the Eagles on a relatively cheap deal is beginning to look appealing. Then again, it's more likely that Slay will play elsewhere in 2023. Slay recorded 55 tackles, three interceptions and 14 pass defenses in 2022 and may have been a step slower in his 10th NFL season. Regardless, Slay is still a borderline elite corner and is bound to have his fair share of suitors on the open market.