The Philadelphia Eagles’ defensive backs are having their best camp in recent memory. Quinyon Mitchell looks great, Kelee Ringo has progressed more than most expected, Isaiah Rodgers has been as good as advertised despite a lengthy layoff, and Big Play Slay has helped them all along the way.
During his first spring with the Eagles back in 2020, Slay first met with the new coaching staff, he expressed his desire to be the guy, the number one cornerback. Slay, never one to shy away from competition, wanted to travel with the opposing team’s number-one receiver. He also wanted to do everything he could to assist in bringing along the other cornerbacks on the roster.
Now heading into his fifth season with the Eagles, everything has stayed the same.
Slay has been as good as his Pro Bowl and All-Pro resume’ suggested. His willingness to help others is paying dividends this season and will have lasting effects on the Eagle’s defensive backfield years after he is gone.
His good nature and work ethic have been a part of his character since his early days on a football field.
Origin
Slay was born on New Year’s Day 1991 in Brunswick, Georgia. He attended Brunswick High where he was a two-way star as both a RB and DB.
He started earning his name as Big Play when he was named an All-State defensive back after intercepting 6 passes and returning 2 for TDs his senior year. He also rushed for 1300 yards and 15 TD’s that same season.
After High School he went to Itawamba Community College, playing two seasons there before earning a scholarship to Mississippi State. Academics were important to Slay’s mother as she would remind him that only 1.6% of college players are drafted into the NFL.
Always confident, Slay felt good about that percentage and worked hard to realize his dream. A dream that he is still living.
NFL Career
Slay entered the NFL draft after his impressive 2012 College season where he had 5 interceptions (one returned for a TD). He ended his senior year tied for the SEC league in interceptions and earned a position as second team All Sec. During the combine he impressed the scouts again, Slay was the fastest defensive back running a 4.36 forty. Big Play was rising on many NFL draft boards. The Detroit Lions selected Slay with the 36th overall pick in the 2013 NFL Draft.
During Slay’s first season in the NFL, he regularly went against Wide Receiver great Calvin Johnson in practice which he attributes to becoming one of the top corners in the league so quickly. He also learned the importance of mentorship.
He earned 3 consecutive pro bowls in 2017, 2018, and 2019. And when the Lions made him available in 2020, the Eagles made it known they had interest.
Eagles tenure
Slay was traded to the Philadelphia Eagles for a 3rd and 5th round pick during the 2020 draft. The Eagles’ defensive backfield immediately improved, and the team has been happy that they were able to trade for him ever since.
Some fans have complained about Slay making jokes on social media and they have a perception that he does not take a loss seriously enough, but do not get it twisted. Slay is a fun-loving guy who makes light of tough situations by using humor. He is also a guy who practices on vet days off, always studying film, and a leader who trains the younger players with his professionalism on and off the field. His numbers since joining the Eagles speak for themselves.
- 3x Pro Bowl Selection (21’, 22’, 23’)
- 9 INTs
- 2 Year Captain for the Eagles
Slay is only the second Eagles defender to score at least three touchdowns in a season, one behind former Eagles cornerback, the great Eric Allen (who had 4 in 1993). He has more seasons to add to his totals.
The Future
Slay is always smiling while giving thoughtful answers to all of the questions he’s been asked since arriving in Philly. It is easy to see why he’s a fan favorite and one of the media’s. He is always having a great time and living life to the fullest. He has a positive vibe and is an important mentor.
Grooming Quinyon Mitchell, Cooper DeJean, and Kelee Ringo will have lasting effects, and positive results while cementing his legacy as one of the greatest CBs the Eagles have had. The 2024 team is already bearing the fruits of his labor with highly contested positional battles amongst the corners and spirited competition against the offense.
Rookie Quinyon Mitchell seems to have a role as an NCB/slot corner to start the season, Kelee Ringo or Isaiah Rodgers are the likely candidates to play opposite Slay in week one. Whoever wins the job will be well-prepared, and whoever is left still fighting for a starting spot will not fall through the cracks. Not with Big Play Slay guiding the cornerback room.
As always, Thank you for reading
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Photo by Kyle Ross/Icon Sportswire
