Darius Slay Bringing Unique Mindset to Steelers OTAs

Cornerback Darius Slay experienced one of the most dominant Super Bowl runs in history last season with the Philadelphia Eagles.

Philly's extraordinary climb to the mountaintop was thanks in part to their emphasis on togetherness. Slay was a large part of that culture as a vocal leader who prioritizes personal connection with his teammates.

Upon signing him in free agency this offseason, the Pittsburgh Steelers were expecting the 12-year veteran to bring that winning mentality to the Steel City. And so far at OTAs this week, he has not disappointed.

The current phase of the offseason is typically encouraged most for rookies and young players, but Slay believes the habits developed early by the entire team, himself included, contribute to sustained success.

"Everybody has to buy in, and this is the time that you need to be bought in,” Slay said.

“Guys have families. I have one as well," he continued. "You want to be a champion? There are things you have to sacrifice, and this is one of the jobs I want to sacrifice. I want to come here, be on time, be present, let guys see my face, let them know it’s important for me to be here, and I’m here to win.”

Slay is not yet required to be at these practices, but he has made the effort to because his team needs it. The commitment to his new home hopes to galvanize a group who is drowning in an on-going saga surrounding their organization and potential quarterback.

Free agent QB Aaron Rodgers has still not made a decision on whether he will sign with the Steelers like many expect, or even quit football all together.

Slay's remarks - while not directly referencing him - could be interpreted as a nudge to Rodgers about what it means to be a part of a team.

The Rodgers distraction seems to be the dark cloud lingering above the heads of Steelers faithful, but Slay is making sure he does his part in connecting with his teammates to generate trust and optimism with those in the building.

The former All-Pro and six-time Pro Bowler has taken the Steelers' young corner Joey Porter Jr. under his wing as a form of mentorship.

“I told him I used to watch his tape growing up. I know a lot of guys don’t like when I say that because it makes them feel old," Porter joked.

"He’s been in the league a long time. He’s a great vet. I’m glad to keep learning from him.”

Slay endorsed this truth by describing how he interacts with his teammates on a daily basis.

“I’m one of the guys that I’m going to talk to you,” he said. “I’m not afraid and waiting for you to come talk to me. I’m going to come invade your space for a little bit. It’s learning each other and understanding how it’s done. That’s how you become better teammates, and that’s how you understand each other on the field.”

Whether the Super Bowl champ will have a chance to begin fostering that relationship with Rodgers remains to be seen.

For now, Slay is laying the groundwork in adding to the Steelers' rich history of winning culture.