Cornerback Darius Slay will not report to the Buffalo Bills after they claimed him off waivers Wednesday, his agent Drew Rosenhaus told ESPN’s Adam Schefter. Slay is taking time away from the game as he considers whether to continue playing or retire.
The veteran defender was released by the Pittsburgh Steelers earlier this week following a healthy scratch in their Week 13 matchup against Buffalo. Slay, 34, signed a one-year deal with Pittsburgh after five seasons with the Philadelphia Eagles and had logged 10 appearances this year, totaling 36 tackles and three pass breakups.
Rosenhaus said Slay appreciated being claimed by Buffalo but wants time to determine his future before deciding on his next step. Philadelphia also attempted to claim him, per reporting from the Philadelphia Inquirer, and there was interest on both sides in a possible reunion. However, the Bills held higher waiver priority.
Buffalo had hoped Slay could bolster its secondary depth behind Tre’Davious White, Christian Benford, Taron Johnson, and Maxwell Hairston as the team continues to navigate injuries and inconsistency at the position.
Across 13 NFL seasons, Slay has established himself as one of the league’s most accomplished cornerbacks, compiling 28 interceptions and earning nine Pro Bowl selections. His decision on whether to continue playing is expected in the coming days.
Kyle leads sports coverage and hosts the Concrete Jungle podcast. Have a lead or question? Send it to [email protected].