Darius Slay is one of the top cornerbacks in the NFL, and he’s also a man who recognizes quality football while not being afraid to show love to the opposition.
Dallas won their 13th straight game at home on Thanksgiving Day, blowing out Washington, 45-10, in front of a raucous home crowd. In the win, second-year cornerback DaRon Bland returned an interception 63 yards for the Cowboys’ final score in a 45-10, breaking the record for interception returns for a touchdown in one season.
Entering Thursday, Bland had been tied with Eric Allen (1993), Jim Kearney (1972), and Ken Houston (1971) for the record.
He’s now the sole owner, and Slay, the Eagles star and best cornerback, showed no hate in proclaiming Blandthis year’s Defensive Player of the Year.
DPOY Bland right now… it shouldn’t even be a debate🔒🔒🔒
— Darius Slay (@bigplay24slay) November 24, 2023
During Philadelphia’s final practice of the week on Friday, Slay explained his reasoning for crowning the opposition and a hated rival.
Darius Slay has his vote for Daron Bland winning DPOY.
“He should easily win it. Only way he don’t is if somebody gets 25+ sacks. That quite don’t happen.
“I got 5 total (TD) my whole career. He got 5 right now.” #Eagles #Cowboys
— Jeff Kerr (@JeffKerrCBS) November 24, 2023
To put what Bland is doing into perspective, Bland has more defensive touchdowns than any other NFL team this season.
The Indianapolis Colts are second with three.
Bland’s five touchdowns equal or more than notable offensive stars like Kansas City Chiefs tight end Travis Kelce, New York Giants running back Saquon Barkley, and Las Vegas Raiders running back Josh Jacobs.
