Steelers Sign Free Agent CB Samuel

The Pittsburgh Steelers have bolstered their secondary by signing cornerback Asante Samuel Jr. to the practice squad. This move comes in response to ongoing injuries affecting the team’s defensive backfield.

Asante Samuel Jr. Joins Steelers

Samuel, a former standout with the Los Angeles Chargers, is regarded as a top free agent. In March, he was ranked among the top 25 free agents by ESPN. However, his signing was delayed after he underwent spinal-fusion surgery in April.

Addressing Injury Concerns

The Steelers’ secondary is facing significant challenges. Cornerback Darius Slay is currently in the concussion protocol due to a helmet-to-helmet hit with teammate Kyle Dugger. Meanwhile, Jalen Ramsey has shifted from his starting slot role to free safety due to injuries depleting the position.

• Current healthy cornerbacks include:
  • James Pierre
  • Brandin Echols
  • Joey Porter Jr.

Entering a crucial stretch of the season, which includes a rematch against the Cincinnati Bengals, the Steelers had only three reliable corners active. Echols filled the slot role against the Chargers, while Pierre stepped in at outside corner. Pierre’s season ended early after he was placed on injured reserve with a shoulder injury.

Samuel’s Career Overview

At just 26, Samuel has played a limited number of games due to injuries. He participated in only four games last season, which marked the fewest outings in his career. Despite these setbacks, Samuel showcased his potential in previous seasons, including a standout performance in the 2022 playoffs where he intercepted three passes in one half against the Jacksonville Jaguars.

• Samuel’s career statistics include:
  • 176 tackles
  • 6 interceptions
  • 50 career games (47 starts)

Although Samuel has impressive ball skills and instincts, his tackling has been criticized. He struggles with maintaining proper angles on ball carriers, which can lead to extra yards after the catch.

The Steelers are hopeful that Samuel will provide much-needed support as they navigate through injury issues in the secondary this season.