The Philadelphia Eagles boasted one of the most formidable defenses in the NFL last season. Their relentless pass rush was the cornerstone of their success, with four players achieving double-digit sacks. This exceptional feat set an NFL record, totaling 70 sacks as a team. Although they fell just short of the all-time record held by the 1984 Chicago Bears with 72 sacks, their defensive prowess was undeniable.
While the front seven received well-deserved recognition for their ability to pressure quarterbacks, the dominant performance of the defensive backfield should not be overlooked. At the forefront of this secondary was cornerback Darius Slay Jr., who, alongside James Bradberry, formed arguably the best cornerback tandem in the NFL.
As the Eagles gear up for another season, they are banking on Slay and Bradberry to deliver even more exceptional play. Slay, acquired from the Detroit Lions in 2020, has been instrumental in transforming the team's defensive culture over the past three seasons.
Slay has consistently performed at a high level for the Eagles, earning Pro Bowl honors in the last two years. With Super Bowl aspirations driving the franchise, the team is hopeful that Slay can maintain his exceptional level of production.
Furthermore, Slay has personal motivation to excel this season. He has an opportunity to ascend into the top 10 for career pass defenses, needing just 19 to surpass Dre Bly's record of 151. Currently, Slay has 133 pass defenses under his belt, achieving this feat only once before in his career. In 2017, during his time with the Lions, he led the league with an impressive 26 passes defended. That season marked his first Pro Bowl nomination and remains his sole All-Pro First Team recognition to date.
As the Philadelphia Eagles prepare for the upcoming season, the dominant presence of Darius Slay Jr. in the defensive backfield is poised to lead the charge once again. With his exceptional skills and unwavering determination, Slay aims to solidify his place among the league's elite.
