When the Pittsburgh Steelers made the decision to sign 2024 Super Bowl champion veteran cornerback Darius Slay in the 2025 offseason, some heads were scratched. That’s because Slay has been an elite cornerback in the NFL since 2013. The six-time Pro Bowler comes to Pittsburgh at the age of 34 years old, which is considered very old for a cornerback in today’s league. Still, the Steelers saw enough value in his experience and leadership to offer him a one-year deal worth $10 million.
Fox News
Pittsburgh Steelers TE Darnell Washington and Eagles CB Darius Slay get into a scuffle during game in 2024.
While some fans question whether Slay can still perform at a high level, others are hopeful he can bring stability to a secondary that struggled with consistency in 2024. His arrival also provides a huge boost to the development of Joey Porter Jr., who is entering his third season in the NFL. Slay’s knowledge of the position and ability to read offenses could help Porter take a major step forward and become the shutdown corner the Steelers believe he can be.
Slay recently joined Dale Lolley and Matt Williamson on the SNR Drive and shared that he is focused on mentoring the younger players, especially Porter. His goal is to pass along everything he’s learned over more than a decade in the league. Whether or not Slay plays at a Pro Bowl level in 2025, his presence should be instrumental in shaping the next leader of the Steelers’ secondary.
"I think Joey [Porter Jr.] is a great [player]," Slay said. "I've been watching this film a long time. I think it's really time for him to shine. I'm just here to help him make sure he's the best player he could possibly be."
Porter has played two seasons in Pittsburgh and has already given Steelers fans plenty of reasons to be excited about his future. He has shown flashes of becoming a true lockdown corner, and the team believes 2025 could be the year he puts it all together.
CBS
Steelers' Joey Porter Jr. looks on during an away game against the Bengals.
Slay, a six-time Pro Bowler with over a decade of experience, sees year three as a crucial moment in Porter’s development and believes it is time for him to take the next big step.
"Give him all the tools that I had learned from a lot of my older guys and OGs I had played with in the league," Slay said. "So, I think it's really his time. I think I'm here to help him blossom up. He's already a great player as it is. Just help him continue to keep climbing to his ceiling."
Slay was mentored by Steelers legend Rod Woodson when he first entered the league, and that experience left a lasting impression. Now in the later stages of his own career, Slay feels a strong responsibility to pay it forward.
He has a genuine hunger to develop young talent and sees his move to Pittsburgh as an opportunity to help Porter take the next step. The Steelers' secondary would benefit greatly from Porter becoming a true number one corner, and with Slay’s guidance, that goal feels within reach.
Steelers' Joey Porter Jr. Has Been Good, But Must Improve In 2025
One of Porter’s biggest areas for improvement is limiting penalties, which continued to be an issue during the 2025 season. Slay has made it clear that reducing those flags and refining Porter’s downfield technique will be a major focus. With his deep understanding of the position, Slay brings the kind of leadership and insight that can elevate a young player’s game. From the moment he arrived in Pittsburgh, he has made it a priority to help Porter improve his discipline, preparation, and overall consistency.
Hard Knocks
Steelers’ Joey Porter Jr. talks with Grady Brown after the 2024 season.
For Steelers fans, it is encouraging to see a veteran of Slay’s caliber so invested in mentoring rather than just playing out his final years. His presence offers more than just experience—it brings purpose and direction to a young secondary. If Porter makes the leap in 2025, Slay will have played a major role in shaping one of the Steelers’ most important defenders for years to come.
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