Giants Release WR Darius Slayton

Slayton was released on Monday, per a team announcement. This marks an end to his seven-year run in New York. Slayton will immediately become a free agent as he looks to find his next opportunity in time for Week 1.

Slayton had been the Giants’ longest-tenured player. Barring a return by means of the practice squad, though, 2026 will mark the beginning of a new chapter in his career. The 29-year-old had been under contract for the next two years prior to this season. His release will generate just $3.61MM in cap savings against $12.75MM in dead money charges in 2026.

New York’s receiver depth chart has been a talking point through the summer, with Odell Beckham Jr. competing for a spot upon returning to the Giants and Malik Nabers attempting to return to full strength in time for Week 1. Slayton’s spot in that setup was unclear – not for the first time – as training camp drew to a close. After seeming to be safe for another year, he now faces an uncertain future.

The Giants have Nabers, free agent addition Darnell Mooney and rookie Malachi Fields in place along with Beckham. Calvin Austin was set to have a role on offense, but an ACL tear will keep him out of the fold all season. That injury appeared to be key in allowing Slayton to survive roster cuts, but that has not proven to be the case.

A veteran of 108 combined regular and postseason games, Slayton was a regular presence in New York’s offense throughout his career. The former fifth-rounder topped 700 yards in a season on four occasions, but drops and inconsistencies proved to be a common source of frustration. After a downturn in total production and yards-per-catch efficiency compared to his peak years, Slayton is unlikely to have a strong market on the eve of the season.

Nevertheless, the Auburn has been a notable vertical threat for much of his career. Slayton has averaged 15 yards per reception for his career, having topped that figure three times. Teams in need of speed at the WR spot could show interest as a result. On the other hand, Slayton’s lack of special teams experience could limit his list of suitors.

Slayton’s public comments on today’s news certainly suggest a Giants taxi squad deal is unlikely. It will be interesting to see which team winds up representing his a second chapter in the NFL.