darius slayton landing spots
darius slayton landing spots
The New York Giants have released their longest-tenured wide receiver, and this article will explore the best Darius Slayton landing spots entering Week 1 of the 2026 NFL regular season. Darius Slayton was slated to start Week 1 against the Dallas Cowboys, but the Giants decided to release him. Originally selected in the fifth round of the 2019 NFL Draft, the former Auburn product finished with 37 receptions for 538 yards and a touchdown in 14 games. After signing a three-year, $36 million contract, the wide receiver was unable to be impactful, and now, with new leadership under head coach John Harbaugh, the wideout has been released.
Earlier this offseason, the Giants overhauled their entire pass-catching unit, signing Calvin Austin, who later suffered a season-ending injury. New York reunited with veteran Odell Beckham Jr., while signing Darnell Mooney for depth. After drafting Malachi Fields, it appears the Giants are continuing to shuffle their receiving unit, and that Slayton was indeed no longer safe from final roster cuts.
darius slayton landing spots
Main Photo: Chris Pedota, NorthJersey.com-USA TODAY NETWORK
Darius Slayton Landing Spots: 5 Best Possible Fits for the $36M Playmaker
Embracing a New Identity
Since 2024, the wideout has emerged as a potential trade candidate, and now he’s expected to receive immediate free-agent interest. It’s unclear what’s next for the pass-catcher, but he should be on a new team come Week 2, if not sooner.
However, the wideout was set to make $13 million and may need to settle for a low-stakes contract in his next deal to prove himself. He’s still 29, has a lot left in the tank, and should have a starting role elsewhere.
It’ll be something to watch closely, but ever since Harbaugh’s arrival, Slayton’s release was expected. It wasn’t if, but when, especially after adding a ton of talented wide receivers this offseason.
Possible destinations for the former fifth-rounder on the next pages
darius slayton landing spots
Dec 29, 2024; East Rutherford, New Jersey, USA; New York Giants wide receiver Darius Slayton (86) celebrates after scoring a touchdown reception during the first half against the Indianapolis Colts at MetLife Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Vincent Carchietta-Imagn Images