Ex-Detroit Players Making Their Mark on the Biggest Stage

As Super Bowl 59 approaches, the connection between the Detroit Lions and this year’s championship contenders—the Philadelphia Eagles and the Kansas City Chiefs—becomes evident. Four former Lions players have earned a place in this year’s title showdown, each contributing in different ways to their respective teams.

A Familiar Presence on the Field and Sidelines

Two ex-Lions, cornerback Darius Slay and defensive back C.J. Gardner-Johnson, are active for the Eagles, bringing their experience and playmaking abilities to Philadelphia’s secondary. Meanwhile, defensive lineman Charles Harris (Eagles) and tight end Anthony Firkser (Chiefs) are currently part of their teams’ practice squads, playing vital supporting roles behind the scenes.

Slay, 34, has not only been a key defensive asset but also a mentor to the Eagles’ younger players, particularly rookies Quinyon Mitchell and Cooper DeJean. His influence goes beyond game-day performances, shaping the next generation of defensive talent in Philadelphia.

Darius Slay: More Than Just a Veteran Player

Eagles secondary coach Christian Parker has been vocal about Slay’s impact, noting how the veteran cornerback has embraced his leadership role. “I think anytime you have a veteran who is so transparent about his struggles as an early player, whether it’s stuff on and off the field, and he shares those experiences with young guys, that’s so valuable,” Parker said. “He really embraces that role because he had great leaders when he was a young player in Detroit.”

Parker further emphasized Slay’s dedication to fostering growth among younger players: “He tries to have the same impact for those guys. He’s a phenomenal teammate. I’m grateful that I have the opportunity to coach him and that our young guys have an opportunity to be around him as well.”

Slay’s Influence on Young Teammates

Rookie cornerback Quinyon Mitchell, one of the Eagles’ promising young defenders, acknowledged Slay’s mentorship as a game-changer for him. “He’s meant a lot to me,” Mitchell shared. “I don’t think I would have had the success I’ve had without him. He’s been a big brother, been a teammate. I can come to him about anything.”

Mitchell also highlighted the rarity of such guidance in the NFL, saying, “Talking to guys from other teams, that kind of shocked me, because that’s not always the case. But we’ve got great veterans here.”

Super Bowl 59: A Testament to Detroit’s Influence

While these former Lions are now fighting for a championship with different teams, their presence in Super Bowl 59 is a testament to the talent that has passed through Detroit. Whether actively competing on the field or providing leadership and depth from the practice squad, these players carry a shared history that connects them to their time in Detroit.

As the Eagles and Chiefs prepare for their biggest game of the season, these former Lions will be looking to make an impact—whether it’s through game-changing plays or the quiet but invaluable role of mentorship and preparation.