The New York Giants announced Monday that they have released veteran wide receiver Darius Slayton. Slayton, a fifth-round pick in 2019, was the longest-tenured Giant, sticking around through multiple head coaching changes. Slayton was preparing to play his eighth season with the franchise.“Grateful for my time in NY,” Slayton posted on social media shortly after his release was announced. “7 years a Giant nothing but love for one of the most prestigious organizations in the NFL. Excited to see what’s next.”The move saves the Giants $3.2 million against the 2026 salary cap. Slayton had signed a three-year, $36 million deal with the Giants ahead of the 2025 season. Now, he’s a free agent. He’s not eligible for waivers as a vested veteran and can sign elsewhere.Slayton fluctuated up and down the Giants’ wide receiver depth chart during his time in New York. But no matter where he was entering the season, the deep threat almost always figured out a way to emerge as a key contributor. Slayton, who tallied 296 receptions for 4,435 yards and 22 touchdowns in New York, led the Giants in receiving four times in his first five seasons. His best season came as a rookie, when he hauled in 48 passes for 740 yards and eight touchdowns.Why it's refreshing that Harbaugh wants to 'win games' this seasonDan DugganThe release of Slayton is only somewhat of a surprise, however, as the veteran was reportedly on the roster bubble and was part of trade speculation as the Giants were cutting down their roster a little more than a week ago. Slayton made the initial 53-man group, only to be cut on Monday.