The Pittsburgh Steelers have made a move to bolster their secondary by signing cornerback Asante Samuel Jr. to their practice squad. This development comes as the team navigates challenges within their defensive backfield.
Samuel, who was selected in the second round of the 2021 NFL Draft, spent his first four seasons with the Los Angeles Chargers. During his time there, the 5-foot-10, 180-pound corner recorded 37 passes defended, six interceptions, and 148 tackles. However, his career faced a significant setback last season when he sustained a neck and nerve injury during the Chargers” Week 5 bye. This injury raised concerns about its potential severity, with the team fearing it might be career-threatening.
At 26 years old, Samuel underwent spinal fusion surgery in the offseason, aiming to return to the field. His recovery process kept him out of action and available throughout the early part of the current season. The Steelers hosted a workout for him at their training facility in Pittsburgh before finalizing the agreement.
With his health restored, Samuel is expected to enhance the competition and depth within the Steelers” secondary. The team has been re-evaluating its cornerback situation following injuries and inconsistent performances. Initially, they had high hopes for their cornerback lineup, which included additions like Jalen Ramsey and Darius Slay. However, injuries, including a significant knee issue to safety DeShon Elliott, have altered their plans.
With Elliott likely out for the remainder of the regular season, the Steelers have shifted Ramsey to a full-time safety role in recent games. Additionally, they acquired safety Kyle Dugger from the New England Patriots, while Chuck Clark has seen his playing time decrease, and Juan Thornhill was released. Although Ramsey”s transition to safety has brought some stability, it has also strained the cornerback position.
Slay, now 34, has shown signs of decline and is currently in the concussion protocol, leaving his availability for the upcoming game against the Cincinnati Bengals uncertain. Samuel will start on the practice squad, but his addition offers the Steelers more flexibility in their defensive strategies. Primarily an outside corner, he also has experience playing in the slot, which could be valuable as the team navigates various offensive matchups.
The Steelers” secondary has struggled this season, ranking among the worst in the league in both total yards and passing yards allowed. If Samuel successfully integrates into the team, there is potential for a longer-term role, especially considering Slay”s one-year contract and the need for a reliable corner opposite Joey Porter Jr..
