Darius Slay was acquired by the Philadelphia Eagles to be a closer, a player capable of ending a game when the opposing team needs to convert a huge third down.
Over the past few seasons, the Eagles have had to witness game-changing bombs and broken tackles turned 70-yard run after the catch opportunities for their opponents.
With Slay ready and willing to shadow the opponents No. 1 receiver, the Eagles finally have a shutdown corner on their side.
Slay’s arrival hasn’t gone unnoticed and during a recent Bleacher Report listing of nine players set to make a significant impact for their new team, the former Lions star landed on the list.
The Eagles acquired Slay for a third- and fifth-round picks. They also signed him to a three-year, $50 million extension. He could solve the coverage issues on one side of the field and match up against the opposing team’s lead wideout. The All-Pro cornerback is able to make plays on contested targets and has logged 19 interceptions and 104 pass breakups for his career.
Slay’s arrival will allow guys like Sidney Jones, Avonte Maddox, and Rasul Douglas to confidently work against the opposing teams No. 2 or three receivers with possible safety help over the top now.
Nickell Robey-Coleman’s arrival in the slot could make an even bigger impact as well, allow Jones, Maddox, and Douglas to win the majority of their matchups this season.
