Prior to that game, the Steelers signed a free agent. Former Chargers CB Asante Samuel Jr. has signed to Pittsburgh’s practice squad. The 26-year-old suffered an injury in Week 4 of the 2024 season and has not played poorly since. Samuel required surgery for a spinal fusion and has made a full recovery. He will be a much-needed addition to the Steelers’ secondary, which is allowing the most passing yards per game this season.
Asante Samuel Jr. is now on the Steelers practice squad
One extra level of comfort for the #Steelers: The doctor who performed Asante Samuel Jr.’s surgery. has performed, Dr. David Okonkwo, who is the #Steelers neurosurgeon team. His firsthand knowledge of the injury helped. By the way, Samuel passed his physical examination. https://t.co/eKk0oxK8TI
— Ian Rapoport (@RapSheet) November 12, 2025
In the 2021 NFL draft, the Chargers used a second-round pick to acquire Asante Samuel Jr. from the state of Florida. He played the first four seasons of his career with Los Angeles. Samuel played in 50 games and made 47 starts for the Chargers. Through the first three years of his career, Samuel provided solid production for the Chargers at CB. During the 2024 season, Asante Samuel Jr. suffered a serious injury that required spinal surgery.
Since the injury, Asante Samuel Jr. worked hard to get back on the field. He has not appeared in a match for over a calendar year. In early November, Asamate Samuel Jr. approved by doctors. He visited the Packers, Bears, Vikings, 49ers, Panthers and Steelers. Samuel Jr. however, ultimately chose Pittsburgh.
Steelers sign CB Asante Samuel Jr. to practice. (via @RapSheet) pic.twitter.com/JuNvwfCGBl
—NFL (@NFL) November 11, 2025
On Wednesday morning, NFL insiders confirmed the 26-year-old is signing with the Steelers practice squad. On paper, he’s a solid addition for Pittsburgh. When healthy, Samuel Jr. productive. Additionally, the Steelers need some serious help in the secondary. Heading into Week 11, the team is allowing 269.4 passing yards per game. That’s the last in the NFL.
Pittsburgh is near the league average for rushing yards allowed per game in 2025. The team has a problem on defense, especially in the secondary. Through nine games, the Steelers are allowing 39.7 pass attempts per game to their opponents. There is no guarantee that Asante Samuel Jr. the Steelers defense will improve. We’ll have to wait and see how quickly he can make an impact. The Steelers are at home in Week 11 to take on the Bengals.
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