Steelers New Cornerback Darius Slay Immediately Sees The Leadership Minkah Fitzpatrick Offers: 'It's Been Great'

Offseason programs are officially underway for the Pittsburgh Steelers, and all eyes are on the team as they begin to prepare for the upcoming season. The Steelers have made several key acquisitions over the past few months, bringing in fresh talent, while also seeing the departure of a few notable names. Now, as the offseason programs kick off, it's a crucial time for new players to begin building chemistry with returning veterans, learn the team’s playbook, and adapt to the Steelers' culture and expectations. These programs are essential for setting the tone for the upcoming season, where the Steelers have a lot to prove.

Although he's a seasoned veteran in the NFL, Darius Slay is one of the new additions to the Steelers' roster, joining the team as a cornerback. As part of the ongoing offseason programs, players often have the opportunity to speak with the media, and Slay recently took that chance to talk about Steelers safety and veteran Minkah Fitzpatrick. Slay shared his honest thoughts about his first impressions of Fitzpatrick and expressed his excitement about the opportunity to share the field with such a respected and talented teammate.

"It’s been great," Slay said. "He’s for sure the leader in that room. I’m just here to come in and help. It’s a blessing. I’ve played with an All-Pro before early in my career. To play with another one, it’s even better. I’ve always seen him as one of the best safeties in the game. To get to work with him is a blessing."

Slay has become one of the top cornerbacks in the NFL throughout his career. He was drafted by the Detroit Lions in the second round of the 2013 NFL Draft and quickly gained recognition for his sharp instincts and strong playmaking skills. Slay earned multiple Pro Bowl selections and was named a First Team All-Pro in 2017 after leading the league in interceptions. After being traded to the Philadelphia Eagles in 2020 and continuing his strong play, Slay is now on the Steelers, where he is expected to provide leadership, experience, and a major boost to the secondary.

Fitzpatrick is considered one of the top safeties in the NFL today. Fitzpatrick is known for his smart play, ability to make big plays, and strong leadership. He has earned several Pro Bowl and All-Pro honors and is a key part of the Steelers’ defense. He was drafted 11th overall by the Miami Dolphins in 2018, but was traded to the Steelers in 2019. That trade turned out to be a great move for both him and the team.

The Steelers' secondary looks strong and balanced going into the 2025 NFL season. Fitzpatrick leads the group, combining experience with young, up-and-coming talent. Slay brings leadership and proven skills, while Joey Porter Jr. continues to grow and make an impact. This mix of experienced players and rising stars gives the defense a solid foundation. With more depth and flexibility than in recent years, the Steelers' secondary is expected to play a big role in stopping offenses and creating turnovers.

Steelers Have A Lot To Prove In 2025

With all eyes on the Steelers and heavy scrutiny surrounding the team this offseason, the entire roster has something to prove and must come together as a unit. A strong offense alone can't win games, and the same goes for the defense; success depends on both sides working together. Offseason programs offer an important opportunity for players to not only sharpen their individual skills, but also build chemistry and cohesion as a team. With the starting quarterback still undecided, the current players, both on offense and defense, must put in extra effort to ensure they're ready, no matter who leads the offense when the season begins.