The 2023 NFL season has seen Darius Slay not just defending his territory as one of the league's premier cornerbacks but also cementing his longevity and resilience in the game. As he plays in his 12th NFL season for the Philadelphia Eagles, Slay's performance at the age of 33 is capturing the admiration of teammates and analysts alike.
A Season of Elite Performance
Slay has consistently demonstrated his defensive prowess on the field. Since Week 5, he has limited quarterbacks to a mere 35% completion rate on 20 passes for 92 yards. Such statistics highlight his exceptional ability to disrupt opposing receivers and QBs alike. His efforts have led to opposing quarterbacks registering a paltry passer rating of 43.8 when he is the primary defender, underscoring his dominance.
In fact, over the last two games, Slay's lockdown coverage has translated into allowing only one reception over eight pass attempts for a total of nine yards, while notably not conceding a single touchdown since Week 5. His immaculate defense is similarly reflected in the Eagles' impressive standing in the league rankings: they are first in yards per attempt allowed, conceding just 6.1 yards on average, and hold the second-best position in pass yards per game allowed with 173.2 yards. The Eagles, boasting an opponent passer rating of 78.9, rank fourth in the league, coupled with a completion rate of 61.5%, placing them fifth among NFL teams.
Veteran Wisdom and Leadership
Slay's continued excellence on the field hasn't gone unnoticed among his peers. Cooper DeJean, discussing Slay's notable achievements, remarked, "I don't think enough people are talking about him, how well he's playing, especially at 33." Despite the many challenges inherent in a professional football career, Slay's determination and experience are evident. Reflecting on his journey, he mentioned, "Everybody in this game go through a lot of adversity, and if you play the cornerback position that's where it comes in a lot... And I've been in that position early in my career with a lot of adversity and had to find a way to get out that mud. And I did."
Slay's impact extends beyond mere statistics; he is a source of invaluable guidance and mentorship for younger players, as highlighted by DeJean: "He's covered a lot of dudes. So just hearing what he does with certain receivers... So just kind of hearing from him how he works receivers and kind of plays the game within the game."
The Art of Longevity
For many athletes, remaining relevant over a decade-long career is a testament to outstanding physical conditioning and the ability to adapt. For Slay, maintaining peak performance is about more than just skill—it's about holistic well-being. As DeJean observed, "So it's awesome to see his longevity, the way he takes care of himself, to be able to play this long in the league."
Slay himself is appreciative of the energy and enthusiasm he derives from his younger teammates, stating, "Everybody always a positive for me. You know what I'm saying. It's always great to be around a lot of young guys, man, to keep me going."
The Bigger Picture
While Slay's formidable presence continues to anchor the Eagles' defense, nearby talents like Quinyon Mitchell and Cooper DeJean also contribute significantly to the team’s overall defensive strategy. Mitchell has excelled in his role, allowing only a 42.9% completion rate with no touchdowns on 21 targeted passes, crafting a similar wall of security to support the Eagles' line. Furthermore, he has assisted in establishing a ceiling with a passer rating against of 50.3. DeJean, too, has been instrumental, allowing 25 of 37 pass attempts and earning a passer rating of 70.9.
As the 2023 season progresses, the Philadelphia Eagles, powered by Slay’s leadership and supplemented by dynamic young talents, stand poised to make substantial advancements in their quest for supremacy. Slay’s continued success is not just a personal milestone but also a beacon shining bright for the entire Eagles organization.