The Pittsburgh Steelers have kicked off Phase 3 of the offseason program with Organized Team Activities (OTAs). There are many players that are not present, as it is not mandatory yet. Some players prefer to practice with the team, while others would rather get in football shape in their own time at home. At the very least, it's good for the rookies and free agent acquisitions to come in so they can get a quick jumpstart on learning the playbook and understanding the scheme.
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Roman Wilson walks onto the field at UMPC Rooney Sports Complex to participate in rookie minicamp in 2024.
During a post-practice interview, new cornerback Darius Slay explained his decision to attend OTAs, despite his experience in the NFL, and why he believes it's important.
"This is where championship football starts," Slay said. "Everybody has to buy in, and this is the time to buy in. I know guys have family and stuff, and I have got one as well, but if you want to be a champion, there are some things you have to sacrifice. I want to be here on time, be present, let guys see my face, and show guys it is important to be here, and I am here to win."
Slay knows a thing or two about championship football, since he played for a team that made two Super Bowls and won one. He also knows quite a bit about what bad football is, since he spent many years with the Detroit Lions and even forced himself out via trade due to the toxic conditions in the locker room. If he says that championship football starts with OTAs, then it might be best for others to follow his lead.
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Steelers' Darius Slay celebrates after winning a Super Bowl with the Eagles.
There are a handful of players that do not see OTAs the same way as Slay does, including new wide receiver DK Metcalf. Obviously, he just got a massive contract, so it's not like he's making some profound statement by passing on this round of practices and waiting until mandatory minicamp. With how much of a freak athlete he is, anything less than him being ready for this phase would be disappointing, even though it's not a problem now.
TJ Watt, on the other hand, is apparently holding-in while negotiating a contract extension. That could result in him skipping mandatory minicamp as well, which could lead to him being fined. There are still a lot of obstacles to hurdle for both sides there. It's safe to say that he will not show up for practice until that is settled. However, he had the best season of his career after his last hold-in, where he skipped all of training camp and preseason.
Steelers Signed Slay To Bring "Championship Football" Back To Pittsburgh
While there are questions about Slay's age and potential regression, he had a solid season in 2024, where he helped the Philadelphia Eagles win a Super Bowl. He is primarily a man coverage corner, which fits with the rest of the outside cornerback group in Pittsburgh. Hopefully, being in that scheme will allow him to play his game and dominate opposing wideouts.
Matt Rourke / Associated Press
Pittsburgh Steelers' new cornerback addition Darius Slay during a 2024 regular season game with the Philadelphia Eagles.
Not only will he help there, but he has said that he is happy to be a mentor for the young guns in the room. Joey Porter Jr. is amazing in press man coverage, but he can sometimes be a little too handsy down the field. Cory Trice Jr. has a similar build to Porter, but he has issues staying healthy and has missed significant playing time. Slay could mentor them both and help them take that next step in being a pro.
Whatever Slay is asked to do, he will do what he can to make it happen. In a cornerback room full of youth, his experience could be an X-factor in elevating the position group. The NFL is changing, so the Steelers need people that have been there and done that in recent years. That's where "Big Play Slay" fits on the team.
What do you think about Slay talking about the importance of OTAs? Let us know in the comments or on X at @Steelers_ChrisB.
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