The New York Giants have released wide receiver Darius Slayton, parting ways with the team's longest-serving player just days before the upcoming season opener. Slayton, a fifth-round pick in 2019, departs after seven seasons with the Giants.
Slayton, 29, had been dealing with core muscle surgery that impacted his performance during training camp, leading to his being relegated to second- and third-string duties. He had been a subject of trade rumors in the weeks leading up to the NFL's deadline for 53-man rosters. While he initially made the Giants' roster, the team ultimately decided to release him.
The Giants' decision was influenced by the additions of players like Malik Nabers, Darnell Mooney, Malachi Fields, Od Odell Beckham Jr., and Braxton Berrios, who pushed Slayton further down the depth chart. The team also faces potential depth issues due to Calvin Austin III being ruled out for the season with a torn ACL.
Slayton expressed gratitude for his time with the team, writing on X, "Grateful for my time in NY. 7 years a Giant nothing but love for one of the most prestigious organizations in the NFL. Excited to see what's next."
The team attempted to trade Slayton before his release, but their efforts were unsuccessful. The decision to cut him will save the Giants approximately $3.12 million against the salary cap this season, though it will result in a dead cap charge of $12.75 million this year and an additional $3 million next year. Slayton was already guaranteed $9 million of his $12 million salary for the current season, with the remainder of that guarantee set to become effective on Saturday.
During his tenure, Slayton played in 108 regular season and playoff games for the Giants, accumulating 301 catches for 4,527 receiving yards and 92 touchdowns. He ranks 14th in franchise history for receptions and 12th for receiving yards. Slayton led the team in receiving yards in four of his first five seasons.
His time in New York, however, coincided with the team's struggles. Since Slayton was drafted in 2019, the Giants have made the playoffs and achieved a winning record only once. The team is now entering the new season under new head coach John Harbaugh and is set to open against the Dallas Cowboys on Sunday night.