Darius Slay and the Eagles were able to agree to terms on a three-year contract this offseason, keeping the 32-year-old from hitting free agency. There were times, however, when it seemed a deal would not be reached.
Speaking on the Big Play Slay podcast, the veteran defensive back admitted that he'd been in conversation with another team before ultimately re-signing with Philadelphia.
On Saturday, Slay revealed that he had a contract lined up with the Ravens in free agency, indicating that he was extremely close to making the move to Baltimore.
“I was almost… a Baltimore Raven. I was this close,” said Slay while gesturing with his fingers. “But, I wanted to be an Eagle. I stayed an Eagle because I knew me and Howie were going to figure something out. But the Baltimore Ravens were the first team that called, and they offered me just what I wanted.”
How close was Darius Slay to becoming a @Ravens? pic.twitter.com/olf59nqaZ8
— Jimmy D (@tgreeezy) April 1, 2023
Ultimately, Slay signed a three-year, $42 million deal in Philadelphia, returning to the organization where he's spent the last three seasons. But he made clear that the Ravens made a strong push for his signature, even meeting his demands when it came to a potential contract offer.
The 10-year veteran featured in all 17 games for the Eagles last season, as well as three playoff appearances during their run to the Super Bowl. He had three interceptions, 14 pass defenses, and 55 tackles in 2022, earning his second consecutive Pro Bowl nod.
