The Daniel Jones era with the New York Giants has come to a close, leading the team into a new chapter as they hunt for their next franchise quarterback. Central to this transition is assembling a team brimming with talent around their new leader. However, it appears that wide receiver Darius Slayton won’t be part of the Giants’ future game plan.
Slayton, who has consistently been Jones’ go-to target, has been a reliable performer, regularly breaching the 700-yard marker in four out of his six seasons with the Giants. But this offseason marked a bump in the road. Slayton had to adjust his contract due to bonuses that were left unrealized because of last year’s quarterback play. Now, as he stands to earn more on the open market, the stage looks set for him to explore new opportunities.
Speculation is rife that Slayton might find a new home with the Kansas City Chiefs. CBS Sports recently highlighted this possibility in their offseason predictions, seeing him as a strong fit for the Chiefs’ setup under the leadership of Patrick Mahomes. Slayton made a splash in his rookie year, racking up 740 yards and eight touchdowns, and boasts the unique achievement of leading the Giants in receiving yards in four of his first five seasons. Adding him to a lineup alongside Rashee Rice and Xavier Worthy could bolster an already formidable wide receiver group.
The Chiefs have felt the ripple effect of trading Tyreek Hill to the Miami Dolphins, which left a void in terms of explosive playmaking. While the offense continues to thrive post-Hill, Slayton’s ability to stretch the field vertically could add a missing dynamic. His skill set aligns perfectly with what Kansas City’s offense might need to tap into even more of their potential.
From Slayton’s perspective, a move could rejuvenate his career. Last season, he was hampered by inconsistent quarterback play, managing a modest 573 yards and two touchdowns. Pairing with Mahomes, widely regarded as the league’s top quarterback, not only promises improved statistical output but also offers a perennial shot at a Super Bowl title.
As it stands, Slayton’s departure seems inevitable. If he departs the Giants, he leaves behind a solid legacy of 259 receptions, 3,897 receiving yards, and 21 touchdowns over six seasons. His exit would leave defensive tackle Dexter Lawrence as the sole survivor of the Giants’ 2019 draft class, marking the end of an era and paving the way for new beginnings in New York.
