Since joining the Lions as a second-round pick in 2013, Slay has grown into the team's CB1 role, playing at a high level over the past two seasons. He has the fifth-most passes defensed since 2014 (tied with Josh Norman with 30), flashing a more refined game. Slay is one of the few corners capable of employing nearly every technique on the perimeter in man or zone coverage. He can play nose-to-nose with receivers in bump-and-run coverage or step back and blanket shifty pass catchers using a shadow technique from distance. Most impressively, Slay can line up on either side or in the slot to match up with the opponent's WR1. That might not seem like a big deal on the surface, but few cornerbacks have the skills, instincts and intelligence to align anywhere on the field and execute at a high level. Playing on both sides of the field requires mastery of different footwork and turns/transitions -- that's much more difficult than some realize. In addition, the move into the slot requires outstanding instincts, awareness and agility due to the hybrid role of the position within the box. Slot corners must be able to make plays against the run while also handling the two-way releases from shifty receivers positioned on the inside.