Steelers sign CB Samuel Jr. to practice squad after successful recovery from spinal surgery

The Pittsburgh Steelers have signed cornerback Asante Samuel Jr. to their practice squad, marking a significant step in his return from a serious spinal injury.

Why it matters: Samuel's acquisition comes at a crucial time for the Steelers, who are grappling with multiple injuries in their secondary.

• With key players like DeShon Elliott on injured reserve and Darius Slay currently in concussion protocol, adding a player of Samuel's caliber could bolster a struggling defense.
• Samuel has shown promise in the past, recording 176 tackles and 47 starts in just 50 games during his NFL career.

What’s new: This move follows Samuel's recovery from spinal fusion surgery, which he underwent to address a lifelong condition affecting his neck and shoulders.

• Cleared to return to football activities in October, Samuel expressed enthusiasm about rejoining the field, stating, “I feel great. It's the healthiest I've ever been."

By the numbers: Before this surgery, Samuel was a second-round draft pick by the Los Angeles Chargers in 2021.

• He played only four games in the 2024 season before being placed on season-ending injured reserve due to ongoing health issues.
• Ranked as ESPN's No. 14 overall free agent prior to free agency, Samuel brings experience and potential to the Steelers’ defensive scheme.

Yes, but: While Samuel's talent is undeniable, his recent history raises questions about durability and long-term impact.

• Although he is now feeling healthy, how quickly he can regain form in a competitive environment remains to be seen.
• The Steelers have already endured a challenging season on the injury front, making Samuel's reliable performance critical if he is to contribute effectively.

What to watch: The integration of Samuel into the Steelers' defensive system will be pivotal as they adjust to his presence.

• Coach Mike Tomlin will need to assess whether to utilize him immediately or gradually integrate him into the lineup, considering the current state of the secondary.

The bottom line: For Samuel, joining the Steelers represents not just an opportunity for a fresh start, but also a chance to prove his resilience and skill after a year marred by health challenges.

• His optimism about joining the team underscores a mutual belief in his potential: "I'm glad I ended up here... I'm blessed to be here with great coaches and great teammates."