The NFL world was rocked earlier this week when news broke that veteran cornerback Darius Slay had been released by the Philadelphia Eagles. While the move itself was a bit of a shocker, it was Slay’s comments following the release that truly sent the internet into a frenzy. Speculation quickly began to swirl about whether Slay’s remarks were a subtle diss toward his former quarterback, Jalen Hurts. The two were not only teammates but also key pieces in the Eagles’ push to the Super Bowl this past season. So, what exactly went down after Slay’s release, and did he throw some shade at Hurts?

Darius Slay’s Release Shakes the Eagles’ Defense

Darius Slay had been a cornerstone of the Eagles’ defense since his trade to the team in 2020, earning multiple Pro Bowls and becoming one of the most respected cornerbacks in the league. He played a huge role in Philadelphia’s rise to NFC Championship glory and their subsequent Super Bowl run. His departure, which many thought would come at a later date, raised immediate questions about the Eagles’ defense heading into the 2025 season.

While the Eagles had hinted that they might move on from Slay to create cap space or look toward a younger, cheaper option, the timing of the release still caught many off guard. However, it wasn’t the decision itself that shocked fans and analysts — it was the tone of Slay’s post-release comments that had everyone talking.

Slay’s Remarks: Was It a Diss?

Following his release, Darius Slay took to social media, where he shared a cryptic message that many interpreted as a direct shot at his former teammates, particularly Jalen Hurts.

In a tweet that has since gone viral, Slay wrote: “It’s crazy how loyalty don’t mean a thing when you’re in a business. Guess I wasn’t ‘that’ guy for them. It’s all good. I’ll bounce back stronger than ever. 💪 #NeverFold.”

While the message did not name Hurts specifically, many fans immediately connected the dots. Some suggested that Slay’s reference to loyalty — and the suggestion that he was not “that guy” for the Eagles — was aimed at Hurts, given that Hurts was often seen as the “face” of the Eagles’ locker room and the guy who was viewed as the future of the franchise.

This was further fueled by a subtle, but telling, comment Slay made in a podcast interview shortly after. When asked about his relationship with Hurts, Slay paused and said, “You know, business is business. But I’m not gonna sit here and act like I didn’t have love for the guy. I just wish I would’ve seen more support when it mattered. But hey, that’s life in the NFL.”

Jalen Hurts’ Response: Keeping It Professional

As expected, Jalen Hurts has remained tight-lipped about the situation, taking a professional and diplomatic stance. The Eagles’ quarterback has been known for his calm demeanor and leadership, especially in the wake of tough decisions. While Hurts has not directly addressed Slay’s comments, those close to the situation insist that there is no bad blood between the two players.

Sources say that Hurts, as well as the rest of the team, were blindsided by the move to release Slay. However, the team has been focused on rebuilding the defense and navigating changes within the roster, so Hurts has kept his attention on the bigger picture — which is leading the Eagles to another Super Bowl appearance.

Hurts, who has been praised for his work ethic and leadership both on and off the field, is not one to engage in public drama or confrontations. It’s likely that he will continue to remain professional, as he has in every other instance, even with the sudden departure of a close teammate.

The Bigger Picture: Did Slay Feel Undervalued?

The real question on everyone’s mind is whether Darius Slay felt disrespected by the Eagles’ decision. For a player who had given so much to the team over the past few years, it’s understandable that he might feel slighted when it comes to matters of loyalty, especially after such a successful season.

Slay’s cryptic message and comments hint that he might have been expecting more from the Eagles — and perhaps, from Hurts as well. It’s possible that Slay felt that as a veteran leader in the locker room, he was left out of key discussions or that the team had moved on too quickly without showing the proper appreciation for his contributions.

The business side of the NFL can be harsh, and as much as the Eagles have shown respect for their star players like Hurts, the organization has made it clear that no one is untouchable, regardless of their standing in the locker room or on the field. This is something Slay, a seasoned veteran, would be acutely aware of.

What’s Next for Darius Slay?

Despite the controversy surrounding his release, Darius Slay is far from finished in the NFL. At 32 years old, he still has plenty left in the tank and is likely to be a sought-after free agent. Teams looking to bolster their defensive backfield — particularly those in need of a seasoned leader — will undoubtedly be eyeing Slay for his talents, leadership, and ability to lock down some of the NFL’s best receivers.

As of now, rumors are already swirling that teams like the Buffalo Bills, Miami Dolphins, and even the Dallas Cowboys might be interested in adding Slay to their roster. He’s expected to play a key role on whichever team signs him, whether it’s as a starter or a rotational piece.

In Conclusion: Is There Tension Between Slay and Hurts?

As for the rumors of a diss between Darius Slay and Jalen Hurts, it’s hard to say for certain. While Slay’s comments certainly raise questions, there’s no concrete evidence that Hurts played a direct role in his release, nor that there’s significant tension between the two. The NFL is a business, and players are often forced to make difficult decisions, whether it’s the team or the player themselves.

Slay’s comments could be more about his frustrations with the business side of the sport rather than a personal attack on Hurts. Regardless, the speculation has only added another layer to an already complex and ever-evolving NFL offseason.

As both Slay and Hurts move on in their careers, it will be interesting to see if any more details emerge about their relationship and the real reasons behind Slay’s sudden departure from the Eagles. Until then, fans will have to wait and see where Slay lands next — and whether or not Hurts will ever comment on the situation.