Pittsburgh Steelers Boost Their Secondary
The Pittsburgh Steelers are welcoming some crucial reinforcements to their secondary.
Asante Samuel Jr., who was drafted by the Chargers in the second round back in 2021, is set to join the Steelers after receiving clearance to return to football activities. This comes after he underwent spinal fusion surgery in April.
To start, Samuel Jr. will be added to the Steelers’ practice squad, but there’s potential for him to move into a cornerback role sooner rather than later. This was reported recently.
At 26, he has recorded six interceptions over his first three seasons. However, his 2024 season was marred by an injury that was initially mistaken for a puncture wound to both shoulders.
Interestingly, Samuel Jr. also had visits with teams like the 49ers, Packers, Panthers, Vikings, and Bears before ultimately landing with the Steelers.
The Steelers, currently with a 5-4 record, have actively sought help in the cornerback department this offseason, including signing Darius Slay to a one-year contract.
Additionally, the team recently traded for Jalen Ramsey before the start of the regular season. Ramsey has made a significant impact, transforming a previously lackluster defense into a more effective unit.
Currently, Slay is dealing with a concussion, which might open the door for Samuel Jr. to see some playing time shortly.
On another note, the Steelers have also made headlines by trading for Kyle Dugger, solidifying him as the starting strong safety. After facing some challenges in Week 1 against Justin Fields and the Jets—allowing 32 points and seeing Fields achieve his highest quarterback rating of the season—the Steelers’ defense has shown some improvements as the season has progressed.
At present, the Steelers hold the 14th position in defensive DVOA.
This Sunday, they’ll be facing off against the Bengals again, a team that has had its own defensive struggles recently when Joe Flacco led them to a close 33-31 win in Week 7.
As it stands, Pittsburgh maintains a narrow lead over the Ravens by just one game in the AFC North.
