Steelers Announce Surprising Roster Change for Bills Game

The Pittsburgh Steelers are making a significant change to their secondary as they prepare for their Week 13 matchup against the Buffalo Bills. Cornerback Asante Samuel Jr. has been promoted from the practice squad, allowing him to play for the first time with the team. This move comes alongside the surprising announcement that Darius Slay Jr. will not be part of the active roster, marking the first time this season he is a healthy inactive.

Darius Slay’s Impact and Performance

Darius Slay, a six-time Pro Bowler, previously signed a one-year contract worth $10 million with the Steelers after a successful tenure with the Philadelphia Eagles. His past season with the Eagles included starting 14 games and contributing to their Super Bowl victory. However, this year, Slay has struggled somewhat, even though he began the season as a starting cornerback for the Steelers.

Slay has faced challenges with minor injuries and was sidelined during Week 11 due to a concussion. He returned in Week 12 but participated in only 20 defensive plays, giving way to teammate James Pierre. His performance this season has raised questions about his agility and effectiveness on the field.

Steelers’ Secondary Against the Bills

With Darius Slay not available for the game against the Bills, the Steelers will lean on a revamped lineup of cornerbacks. The active squad for this game includes:

• Joey Porter Jr., who has recovered from a hip flexor injury
• James Pierre, who has solidified his role in the defense
• Brandin Echols, who will handle the slot position
• Asante Samuel Jr., making his season debut after recovering from spinal fusion surgery

In addition, Jalen Ramsey will continue to play at safety alongside Kyle Dugger, who joined the team following a trade with the New England Patriots. This reconfiguration signals a new phase for the Steelers’ secondary as they adapt to the evolving dynamics of their defense without Slay.

The upcoming game against the Buffalo Bills will be a telling moment for Pittsburgh’s defense as they incorporate these changes and seek to enhance their performance on the field.