Darius Slay Named Mississippi State’s 2026 SEC Football Legend

STARKVILLE — Darius Slay, a former standout cornerback for Mississippi State, has been named the university’s 2026 SEC Football Legend, the Southeastern Conference announced Monday.

Slay, a native of Brunswick, Georgia, played two seasons at Itawamba Community College before joining Mississippi State. He quickly established himself as a key player for the Bulldogs during the 2011 and 2012 seasons. In his senior year, he earned All-SEC honors and was an honorable mention All-American.

During his college career, Slay led the SEC with five interceptions in 2012, tying for ninth nationally. He also totaled 40 tackles and six pass breakups that season. Notable moments include a 72-yard interception return for a touchdown against Georgia in 2011 and a game-sealing interception against Arkansas in 2012. Over two seasons, he recorded 63 tackles, six interceptions, 10 pass breakups, and a forced fumble.

Following college, Slay was selected in the second round of the 2013 NFL Draft by the Detroit Lions. He spent 13 seasons in the league, earning six Pro Bowl selections and two First-Team All-Pro honors. During his career, he totaled 28 interceptions, 655 tackles, and five defensive touchdowns. He played in two Super Bowls, winning Super Bowl LIX with the Philadelphia Eagles in his final season.

Slay and other SEC Legends will be honored at the SEC Championship Game in Atlanta on Dec. 5. He will also participate in the SEC Legends Reception at the College Football Hall of Fame on Dec. 4 and SEC FanFare activities at the Georgia World Congress Center on Dec. 5, prior to kickoff. The SEC Legends program is in its 31st year.

He joins a distinguished list of Mississippi State alumni recognized as SEC Legends, including Johnny Baker, Jimmy Webb, Hunter Corhern, and Fletcher Cox, among others.

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