Darius Slay sounds off at NFL setting up Eagles-Packers opener in Brazil: "I do not wanna go”
Darius Slay and the Philadelphia Eagles will face the Green Bay Packers in their season opener in Sao Paulo, Brazil. This is the first time in NFL history that a game will be played in South America.
However, conducting a game in Brazil is proving to be tough for the NFL. Earlier reports indicated that both teams couldn't wear green jerseys because it is the primary color of Palmeiras, a direct rival of Corinthians football club based in Sao Paulo.
Moreover, Sao Paulo is dealing with wildfires that have recently killed two people. The situation has improved, but the city's air quality could be a big issue during the game.
Slay recently talked about the game in Brazil and said that although he is excited about Week 1, he doesn't want to go to the South American country. He mentioned that security measures prevent the players from doing anything in the city and even from leaving their hotels. The Eagles star said:
“Week 1, I can’t wait. But man, I do not wanna go to Brazil... They already told us not to leave the hotel. They told us we can’t do too much because the crime rate is crazy. I’m like ‘NFL, why would you wanna send us somewhere with a crime rate this high?"
The NFL wants to expand the game to different countries, but unlike in England or Germany, players are not looking forward to playing in Brazil. Hopefully, both teams' players will return home safely without encountering any issues.
Darius Slay has advised his family not to come to Brazil
Darius Slay also mentioned that he has told his family not to come to Brazil. It is mainly because the players will not be allowed to leave the hotels, and there is no use in putting the family in danger, as the NFL has mentioned that the crime rate in Sao Paulo is quite high.
The fans in Brazil are undoubtedly excited about the upcoming game. However, the events leading up to the game in the country may prevent the league from organizing international games there going forward.
Despite the concerns about sporting the green color in Sao Paulo, the Packers will reportedly be in their green jersey during the game against the Eagles on Friday night.