Steelers release cornerback Darius Slay in mutual agreement after brief time together

The Pittsburgh Steelers have decided to part ways with veteran cornerback Darius Slay after less than a full season with the team, according to multiple sources. Slay and the Steelers reached a mutual agreement to terminate his contract, his agents confirmed to ESPN.

At 34 years old, Slay remains interested in continuing his career and is reportedly considering opportunities with other NFL teams. The decision comes amid a challenging stretch for the Steelers defense.

According to NFL Network's Tom Pelissero, the team plans to promote Asante Samuel Jr. from the practice squad, creating the roster space needed to release Slay. If he clears waivers, Slay will be eligible to sign with another team. The Steelers are also reportedly adding receiver Adam Thielen, who was recently released by the Minnesota Vikings.

Slay has not appeared in a game since suffering a concussion on November 9, which caused him to miss Week 11 against the Cincinnati Bengals. Though he practiced in a limited capacity during Week 12 and was cleared from the injury report last week, Slay remained inactive for the loss to the Buffalo Bills.

Slay joined Pittsburgh this season on a one-year deal, following a four-year stint with the Philadelphia Eagles that included a Super Bowl victory. He began his NFL career with the Detroit Lions, where he spent four seasons. Slay is a six-time Pro Bowler, earning three selections with both the Eagles and Lions.

Pittsburgh, currently 6-6 on the season, has struggled defensively, prompting calls from fans for head coach Mike Tomlins dismissal after the recent loss to Buffalo. Despite the criticism, Tomlin, the NFLs longest-tenured head coach, acknowledged fan frustrations without directly responding to the calls for his firing. "When you're not winning, it's not entertaining," Tomlin stated. "And so I respect it, I share their frustrations."

Since taking the helm in 2007, Tomlin has led the Steelers to 18 consecutive non-losing seasons. However, the team has not won a playoff game since 2016. To maintain their non-losing streak, Pittsburgh must win at least three of their remaining five games.

Author: Sophia Brooks