Lordy... Lordy... What do the Philadelphia Eagles do with Darius Slay? We've really grown to love this guy, but lately, we keep thinking about the 'business of football'.
A solid veteran and leader in the locker room represents one of the Birds' toughest decisions this offseason. He isn't scheduled to hit free agency until 2026, but he's also one of the more expensive players on the roster.
Slay represents a $13.7 million cap hit and $22.6 million in dead cap money next season, and as you know, the Birds are trying to keep as much of this Super Bowl-winning roster intact as possible.
As much as it would hurt to do so, moving the six-time Pro Bowler might help Howie Roseman and company accomplish that objective.
Free agents that make sense if the Eagles use that option to replace Darius Slay
Philly drafted Quinyon Mitchell and Cooper DeJean during the 2024 NFL Draft. They have grown into stars already, so the question is obvious.
Might their ascension convince the Eagles organization they can survive without Slay? He had a whale of a season en route to Philly's second Super Bowl win, but the Birds could consider exploring less-expensive options as they begin constructing next season's roster.
Let's say they go the free-agency route. We're thinking D.J. Reed will be one of the highly-touted free-agent cornerback targets and almost an expensive option as Slay is. We'd advise against Philly going that route.
Charvarius Ward didn't have his best season in 2024. His overall body of work, however, will give him options and, more than likely, a payday.
Byron Murphy also figures to cash in. Add him to the list with Reed and Wards as guys who will probably earn a price tag that exceeds what Philly wants to pay someone at this position.
Don't get frustrated. The good news is the following players make sense if the Birds move on from Darius Slay (and a team-friendly deal is an option).
Carlton Davis
The Detroit Lions added Carlton Davis via a trade with the Tampa Bay Buccaneers this offseason. He helped tremendously for a secondary that endured several injuries, but his time in the Motor City may have ended.
He could be one of free agency's first signing wave, but we wouldn't be surprised if he isn't. A few coins may be saved if the latter proves to be true. Keep an eye on him as we move through the process.
Jonathan Jones
The New England Patriots played Jonathan Jones at slot corner on occasion, but that isn't his gift. He's better at playing outside.
He's physical and gets his hand on the ball. He hasn't picked off many passes as of late, but he's another option.
Fortunately, the Birds employ Cooper DeJean , so there isn't a need to play Jones inside. If signed, however, at least we know he's experienced there.
Kristian Fulton
He hasn't had the most consistent career after the Tennessee Titans drafted him in the second round of the 2020 NFL Draft. Injuries robbed him of most of his rookie season. He looked good with the L.A. Chargers last year. Good for him! Kristian Fulton is easy to cheer for.
He isn't as expensive as D.J. Reed. He's less expensive than Darius Slay. He doesn't pick off a lot of passes, but we'd only recommend him if there are no other options. It may make more sense to keep this next guy.
Isaiah Rodgers
Isaiah Rodgers isn't the perfect option, but he might be perfect for the Eagles. He's spent a year here. He was normally decent when called upon and forced into action.
He might be the best option in this bunch all things considered. He's one of Philly's impending free agents but also cost-effective.
He's now had a year in Vic Fangio's scheme and seemingly representative of the easiest of transitions if Slay is no longer in this team's plans. Circle his name. We wouldn't be shocked if he's allowed to walk, nor would we be caught off guard if he returns via a team-friendly deal.
