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Steelers Bet on Asante Samuel Jr. to Stabilize Cornerback Position
16 Nov
Summary
- Asante Samuel Jr. returns to NFL after year-long recovery from spinal fusion surgery
- Steelers sign 26-year-old cornerback to provide experience and talent to secondary
- Samuel has played 50 games with 47 starts, 6 interceptions, and 34 pass breakups
In a move to bolster their secondary, the Pittsburgh Steelers have signed cornerback Asante Samuel Jr. to a multi-year deal. The 26-year-old is making his return to the NFL after spending the last year recovering from spinal fusion surgery.
Samuel's career numbers suggest he has the potential to be a stabilizing force in the Steelers' defensive backfield. Over 50 games and 47 starts, he has recorded 6 interceptions and 34 pass breakups, indicating he can be a steady, above-average starter. At this stage of his career, the Steelers are likely viewing Samuel as a long-term solution rather than a short-term fix.
The Steelers' cornerback position has been inconsistent outside of Joey Porter Jr., so Samuel's arrival could provide the experience and talent the team has been searching for. If he can regain his pre-injury form, the young cornerback has the upside to be a key piece in the Steelers' secondary for years to come.
