Steelers Veteran Absolutely Reached Out To Darius Slay Prior To Signing: "We Tried Two Years Ago"

The Pittsburgh Steelers made a significant addition to their defensive lineup this past week, signing veteran cornerback Darius Slay. Slay, who most recently played for the Philadelphia Eagles, has an impressive resume that includes a recent Super Bowl victory. In addition to his Super Bowl win, Slay's impressive career also includes one All-Pro selection and six Pro Bowl appearances. His proven track record and reputation as a top-tier cornerback made him a coveted free agent, and the Steelers were able to secure his services with a one-year, $10 million contract. 

Slay, known for his engaging personality, hosts a podcast called Big Play Slay, where he frequently discusses his experiences in the NFL, as well as shares his own insights of the league. In a recent episode, Slay shared his experiences navigating the complexities of free agency, specifically focusing on his recent signing with the Steelers. He revealed that this particular free agency period marked a significant milestone in his career, as it was the first time he had truly been apart of the process. 

During the podcast, Slay discussed his conversations with his agent, outlining the hopes and expectations he had for potential teams. He emphasized the importance of finding a team that not only valued his on-field abilities, but also aligned with his personal and professional goals. However, amidst the discussions of team dynamics and contract negotiations, one particular interaction stood out. Slay shared that a veteran player from the Steelers had reached out to him directly, expressing interest in his potential arrival. 

"It was Cam [Heyward] mostly," Slay shared.

This gesture, he explained, left a lasting impression and played a significant role in his decision-making process. The player who extended this welcoming hand was none other than Cameron Heyward, a respected leader and dependable defenseman for the Steelers. 

"He saw the release, he kind of hit me up and was like, 'Hey, Slay man look, you know we tried two years ago,'" said Slay. "He's like, 'Man come on, come on, this is a great opportunity,'" Slay explained. 

Slay revealed that his relationship with Heyward extends beyond simply professional; they share a genuine and close friendship. During this quote, Slay alluded to a previous attempt by Heyward to recruit him to the Steelers two years prior. This reference pertains to the Steelers' signing of Patrick Peterson, a veteran cornerback from the Minnesota Vikings, during that year's free agency period. Peterson, like Slay, plays the cornerback position, and the Steelers ultimately released him following the conclusion of the 2023 season. At the time of Peterson's signing, Slay was still under contract with the Eagles, stopping him from becoming a free agent. However, it's evident that Heyward had long harbored a desire to see Slay represent the Steelers' black and gold. 

This persistent pursuit highlights the value Heyward placed on Slay's skills and character. Now that Slay has finally joined the Steelers, there's a great sense of anticipation surrounding his integration into the team's defensive scheme. Fans are eager to witness how Slay's talent and experience will mesh with the Steelers' existing defensive unit, and how his presence will contribute to the team's overall performance.

The Steelers Benefit From Heyward's Leadership

Heyward's reputation as a pillar of leadership within the Steelers organization is well-established, extending far beyond his on-field contributions. He consistently embodies the qualities of a true leader, demonstrating exceptional character and a deep commitment to serving his community. Heyward's dedication to making a positive impact has been recognized through his remarkable six career nominations as the Steelers' representative for the prestigious Walter Payton Man of the Year Award. This sustained recognition resulted in him winning the award for the 2023-24 season, solidifying his status as a role model both on and off the field.

This unwavering leadership is particularly significant for the Steelers, who are currently navigating a period of uncertainty as they seek to fill the crucial starting quarterback position. The absence of a definitive signal-caller can create a void in team cohesion and direction, making strong leadership within the locker room even more vital. However, Heyward's presence serves as a stabilizing force, providing unwavering mentorship and guidance to his teammates. He effortlessly assumes the role of a mentor, offering support and encouragement to players of all experience levels. 

Steelers fans are excited to witness the familiar leadership of Heyward alongside the fresh dynamic brought by new faces like Slay. The combination of experienced leadership and new talent is generating significant buzz. 

What are your expectations for Slay's contribution to the Steelers? We'd love to hear your opinions in the comments!

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