The Philadelphia Eagles have acquired a long-sought target, trading for cornerback Darius Slay in a blockbuster deal with the Detroit Lions on Thursday.
Slay, who had been looking for a new contract in Detroit, will instead join the Eagles, with whom he immediately agreed to a three-year, $50 million contract extension that contains about $30 million in guaranteed money.
In exchange for their Pro Bowl cornerback, the rebuilding Lions will receive the Eagles’ 3rd round (85th overall) and 5th round (166th overall) picks in the upcoming Draft.
Despite winning the NFC East and narrowly making the playoffs last season, the Eagles were hampered by their secondary at many times. The team allowed way too many long passes last season, allowing 15 pass plays of 40-plus yards last season.
Now, they have at least one question mark in the secondary answered with the acquisition of the Georgia native. Slay is a three-time Pro Bowler, having been given the nod for his excellent work in each of the past three seasons.
After recording 8 interceptions in his breakout 2017 season, opposing offenses have largely ignored Slay’s side of the field. He recorded two interceptions and 46 tackles last season.
Now, he’ll look for a fresh start with a Philadelphia team that will be looking to contend for a playoff berth and a Super Bowl title in the upcoming season.
