Free agent CB Asante Samuel Jr., who spent the first four seasons of his career with the Los Angeles Chargers, has been cleared to play after suffering a spinal injury last season, per ESPN’s Jeremy Fowler.
Per Fowler, Samuel underwent spinal fusion surgery in April. Dr. David Okonkwo, the Steelers’ team neurosurgeon, performed the surgery. Okonkwo also reviewed Samuel’s recent medical records. With their team doctor’s heavy involvement in Samuel’s medical process, it’s possible that the Steelers could be a team to watch for Samuel if he’s looking to play this season.
Pittsburgh’s cornerback position looked like a strength entering the season. But CB Darius Slay has underperformed, and the team moved Jalen Ramsey to safety for their Week 9 game against the Indianapolis Colts. Pittsburgh’s defense put together one of its most complete performances with Ramsey at safety, and there’s a chance the team could keep him there, opening up a need at cornerback.
The NFL trade deadline is tomorrow, and the Steelers could pursue cornerback help via trade. If they aren’t able to acquire a cornerback, they could look to free agency, and Samuel is an intriguing name.
In four seasons, Samuel has 176 tackles and six interceptions in his career. He can play the nickel, a shorthanded position if the Steelers keep Ramsey at safety. CB Brandin Echols was the team’s primary slot corner in Week 9 against the Colts, but with Samuel healthy, the Steelers could consider bringing him into the mix.
A move likely wouldn’t be imminent, and even when Samuel signs with a team, it’ll likely take a few weeks before he’s in football shape and ready to contribute. But the Steelers’ defense played well in Week 9, and adding another cornerback, especially one with slot capabilities, is something the team could explore. Samuel obviously wouldn’t require the team to give up any assets as it would if it tried to trade for a cornerback. Depending on what the team does ahead of the deadline, he’s an intriguing name to watch for a potential addition.
Given that the team’s medical staff has played a role in his recovery and rehab process and their need at cornerback, Samuel looks to be a potentially realistic and viable option for the Steelers in the second half of the season.
