Sun Mar 09 09:20:00 UTC 2025: **Eagles Release Star Cornerbacks Slay and Bradberry to Free Up Cap Space**
**Philadelphia, PA –** In a surprising move, the Super Bowl champion Philadelphia Eagles have released veteran cornerbacks Darius Slay and James Bradberry, sources confirmed Monday. Both releases are designated as post-June 1 transactions, saving the team $4.3 million and $2.1 million in salary cap space, respectively.
The move comes as the Eagles look to manage their salary cap following several lucrative long-term contracts for key players. General Manager Howie Roseman recently emphasized the need to rely on younger, less expensive players on rookie contracts. The team drafted Quinyon Mitchell and Cooper DeJean last year, both of whom had impressive rookie seasons contributing to the league’s top-ranked defense.
Slay, a 34-year-old six-time Pro Bowler, spent the last five seasons in Philadelphia, establishing himself as a team leader and mentor to younger players. Before joining the Eagles, Slay played for the Detroit Lions, where he was a first-team All-Pro in 2017. His release leaves open the possibility of a return to his original team.
Bradberry, 31, missed the entire 2024 season due to a leg injury. He played three seasons with the Eagles and amassed 19 interceptions throughout his eight-year NFL career.
The Eagles now have over $20 million in cap space, but several key players, including linebacker Zack Baun, defensive linemen Josh Sweat and Milton Williams, and guard Mekhi Becton, are set to hit free agency. The team’s decision on how to use their newly available cap space and how defensive coordinator Vic Fangio will utilize the young cornerbacks will be key storylines heading into the offseason. The possibility of Slay rejoining the Lions is already generating significant discussion among analysts and fans alike.
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