Darius Slay Indicates He'll Hold Out of Lions Mandatory Mini-Camp in Search of Salary Raise
By Brendan Azoff
Darius Slay stated on an instagram Live video that he will skip the mandatory mini-camp and hold out in the hopes of getting a new contract.
Slay is set to make $12.5 million in 2019 and $10 million in 2020, but the All-Pro cornerback would apparently like to restructure his deal before returning to the Lions.
#Lions All-Pro CB Darius Slay indicated he'll hold out mandatory OTAs, he's seeking a salary raise.
— Dov Kleiman (@NFL_DovKleiman) June 3, 2019
Slay is due an average of $11 million over the next two years.
Slay followed up a 2017 campaign which saw him have eight interceptions with another three in 2018. The corner can certainly lock down opposing receivers and has a knack for making miraculous interceptions.
The 28-year-old has the same agent as fellow Lions defender Damon Harrison who is also holding out for a new contract. Although Slay did not make the intentions for his hold out completely clear yet, one can imply that his lack of attendance has to do with money.
Most consecutive seasons with multiple interceptions (active streaks):
— NFL Research (@NFLResearch) May 29, 2019
Chris Harris Jr. 7
Stephon Gilmore 6
Janoris Jenkins 5
Darius Slay 5
Micah Hyde 5
Mike Adams 5@Broncos @ChrisHarrisJr https://t.co/XQEpAIzjxZ
Detroit is in a predicament when it comes to Slay, as they can ill-afford to lose a player with as much talent on the defensive side of the ball. Slay has been the model of consistency over the past few seasons, and it appears he wants to be compensated for his level of play.