The tenure of John Harbaugh brought significant changes to the New York Giants, and one of the most unexpected adjustments unfolded at the start of the NFL season. Wide receiver Darius Slayton, who held the position of the longest-tenured player with the Giants going into the 2026 season, was released by the team. This decision came after Slayton initially secured a spot on the 53-man roster during training camp.
Slayton, whose cap hit was projected to be $15.9 million in 2026, saw his release save the Giants approximately $3 million in cap space. His departure was announced as the team prepared for their Week 1 matchup.
Despite leaving the Giants, Slayton expressed his gratitude in a social media post. He wrote 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.’
Darius Slayton during a match against the Dallas Cowboys at MetLife Stadium in East Rutherford, N.J., on Jan. 4, 2026, where the Giants secured a 34-17 victory.
Initially drafted in the fifth round out of Auburn in 2019, Slayton showcased potential with 740 receiving yards and eight touchdowns in his rookie season. Despite not emerging as a leading receiver, Slayton consistently contributed depth to the roster through various coaching changes during his time in New York.
However, Slayton’s career was marred by inconsistency, struggling to exceed four touchdowns in any season following his debut. Drops on the field became a source of frustration for Giants fans.
Leading into 2026, there were doubts regarding Slayton’s stability on the team. The Giants signed multiple new receivers in free agency, including Calvin Austin III, Darnell Mooney, and Odell Beckham Jr., as well as drafting Malachi Fields in the third round.
Darius Slayton reacts during the latter half against the Dallas Cowboys at MetLife Stadium on Jan. 4, 2026.
The recent training camp saw Austin suffer a season-ending injury, allowing competition among the remaining receivers for roster spots. Fields, Mooney, and Beckham, alongside 2024 first-round pick Malik Nabers, were favored by fans, leading to heightened competition for Slayton.
Slayton’s exit likely signifies readiness for Nabers to step up in Week 1. There is still uncertainty about Nabers’ availability against the Dallas Cowboys. If Nabers isn’t ready, Mooney, Fields, and Beckham will carry the receiving responsibilities for quarterback Jaxson Dart.
Darius Slayton enters the field before a game against the San Francisco 49ers at MetLife Stadium on Nov. 2, 2025.
Even though Slayton is without a team, other franchises may consider him to enhance their receiving depth as the season begins.
Reported by Scott Thompson for Fox News Digital.
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