Former Detroit Lions second-round pick announces retirement from the NFL

After 13 seasons in the NFL, former Detroit Lions cornerback Darius Slay is calling it quits.

Slay, who was a second-round pick of the Lions back in 2013, announced his decision to retire on Instagram.

"Dear football, I wanna thank you for all you’ve done for me. I’ve been blessed to play the game I loved since I was 5yrs old for an amazing 13yrs at the highest level," Slay said.

"Football was my peace, my joy, my everything. This game put me in a position to help take care of my family and loved ones and I’m forever grateful," Slay added. "It’s hard to say goodbye, but God has a new chapter for me and I’m ready to turn the page and start my new journey.

"To all my BigPlay fans, I will always appreciate the love and support y’all have given to me. I couldn’t have done it without you. Just A kid from Brunswick, GA with BIG dreams... BigPlay on and off the field! We Out."

Slay developed into a star and one of the best cornerbacks in the league during his seven years with the Lions. In that span, Slay earned three Pro Bowl nods, one All-Pro selection, and he was routinely one of the few bright spots in Detroit.

Slay's stint with the Lions ended in 2020, when he was traded to the Philadelphia Eagles. Slay continued playing at an elite level, earning three more Pro Bowl selections. He also won a Super Bowl ring in Philly.

Slay's time in Philly came to an end in 2025, when he was cut and ultimately latched on with the Pittsburgh Steelers.

However, that stint proved unsuccessful and Slay was cut by Pittsburgh before the season ended. The Buffalo Bills scooped him up off waivers but he decided not to play for them.

Regardless of how things ended, Slay will be considered a franchise great in both Detroit and Philly after what was a stellar NFL career overall.

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