'One of the best in the world': Eagles CB Darius Slay backs up boasting with stellar play
QB Jalen Hurts and the offense have grabbed the spotlight for the Eagles, but the impressive play of cornerback Darius Slay merits attention, too.
Through two games, Slay is tied for second in the NFL in interceptions with two, both coming in Week 2 against the Vikings. Per Pro Football Focus, the 31-year-old has an 84.8 grade, tied for second among corners. In his 10th NFL season, Slay earned NFL Defensive Player of the Week honors for his strong Week 2 performance.
In recent years, the Eagles have prioritized having a lockdown corner. In 2020, they traded third- and fifth-round picks to Detroit for Slay, who was languishing on a terrible Lions team. In his third season in Philadelphia, Slay has raised Eagles secondary play.
In Week 2 against Vikings, Slay clamped down on WR Justin Jefferson, one of the NFL's brightest young stars, Of Jefferson's 12 targets, he made six catches for 48 yards. In matchups against Slay, however, he was held to one catch for five yards on five targets. Slay had more interceptions than Jefferson had receptions in the matchup.
True to his fun-loving personality, Slay delivered an interception ball to Sixers star James Harden following his first pick.
In a postgame news conference, Slay doubled down on his belief in himself.
"(Jefferson)'s one of the best in the world, but I'm one of the best in the world too," he said. "So I was looking forward to the matchup."
Perhaps more impressive than his play is Slay's development as a team leader. Known for a goofy personality, he fought back tears when he was named a team captain, per NBC Sports Philadelphia, calling it one of the best honors of his career.
Slay's teammates were not surprised by him becoming one of the Eagles' vocal leaders. As cornerback Avonte Maddox put it, "He's one of the best leaders I've ever been around."
In his third season in Philadelphia, Slay clearly has become more comfortable on the field and in the locker room. Defensive coordinator Jonathan Gannon also had high praise for his star.
As the Eagles (2-0) target lofty goals, Slay will continue to play a major part.
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