Darius Slay Puts NFL Career on Hold to Focus on Family, Consider Retirement

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Buffalo Bills cornerback Darius Slay has decided to put his NFL career on hold, citing a desire to focus on his family and consider retirement after 13 years in the league. The six-time Pro Bowl player, 34, was waived by the Pittsburgh Steelers on Tuesday and had been set to join the Bills, but instead chose to take time off to be with his loved ones. Slay, who has played for the Detroit Lions and Philadelphia Eagles, including a Super Bowl-winning season with the Eagles, expressed his gratitude for being able to attend his son's high school basketball game this week. However, he remains uncertain about his future in the game, stating that he is '50-50' between retiring and continuing to play. The Bills, who had high hopes for Slay's addition to their team, were left to deal with the consequences of his decision. They had released fourth-year player Ja'Marcus Ingram to claim Slay, but Ingram was subsequently claimed by the Houston Texans. Slay has been placed on the reserve/did not report list, allowing the Bills to clear a spot on their active roster for veteran safety Darnell Savage. Coach Sean McDermott expressed his disappointment at the situation, praising Ingram and wishing Slay and his family well. The Bills will face the Cincinnati Bengals on Sunday, and will be without edge rusher Joey Bosa and linebacker Terrel Bernard, while wide receiver Joshua Palmer is listed as doubtful. Left tackle Dion Dawkins has cleared the concussion protocol and will return this week.