The Philadelphia Eagles clinched victory in Super Bowl 59 less than a month ago, defeating the Kansas City Chiefs in dominant fashion. On Sunday, February 9, the Eagles overwhelmed the Chiefs with a 40-22 win at Caesars Superdome in New Orleans, Louisiana. Head coach Nick Sirianni’s squad came out firing, jumping to an early 24-0 lead and never allowing Kansas City to recover. Quarterback Jalen Hurts was named Super Bowl MVP after leading the team with a stellar performance, while newly acquired running back Saquon Barkley contributed significantly in his first season with the franchise, helping to secure the championship.
Despite the ongoing celebrations in Philadelphia, the business side of the NFL continues, and roster decisions must be made. Just weeks after their Super Bowl triumph, the Eagles have decided to part ways with two veteran players on the defensive side of the ball.
Among the players being released is six-time Pro Bowl cornerback Darius Slay. A key contributor in the Eagles’ secondary, Slay had a cap hit exceeding $10 million for the 2025 season, making him a financial casualty of the team’s offseason adjustments. The former Detroit Lions star has expressed his desire to continue playing in the NFL, though it will not be with Philadelphia. Prior to the Super Bowl, Slay acknowledged the possibility of being cut, maintaining a level-headed approach to his uncertain future.
“If it is, it is. If it ain’t, it ain’t,” Slay said regarding a potential return to the Eagles. “For sure, the two spots I would love to always be at are Philly and Detroit. The main two, the main ones I’d love to be at.”
Slay is not the only defensive veteran being shown the door. The Eagles have also opted to release cornerback James Bradberry. The 31-year-old, who suffered a torn Achilles during preseason practice, did not play in the 2024 season but remained an integral part of the team. Bradberry has expressed his intent to return to the field in 2025, hopeful to continue his career at cornerback.
Despite not contributing on the field this past season, Bradberry still took pride in being part of a championship team. “I’m going to get a ring, and I can always say I’m a Super Bowl champion, so I’m a part of it,” he stated.
As the Eagles prepare for the 2025 season, they will have to adjust to the loss of experienced defenders while looking to build on their Super Bowl success. While Slay and Bradberry move on to the next chapters of their careers, Philadelphia aims to remain a top contender despite the roster shake-ups.
