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The Pittsburgh Steelers‘ defense hasn’t been up to its usual standard so far this season. After a lifeless loss to the Los Angeles Chargers in Week 10, it was clear something needed to change.
Pittsburgh took a step to tighten things up by signing cornerback Asante Samuel Jr. The veteran could provide a much-needed boost to a secondary that hasn’t made a huge impact so far.
The Steelers’ defensive coordinator recently revealed what Samuel’s role on the defense will be.
“Teryl Austin says they are working Asante Samuel Jr. exclusively as an outside cornerback right now,” Nick Farabaugh wrote on X.
Teryl Austin says they are working Asante Samuel Jr. exclusively as an outside cornerback right now.
— Nick Farabaugh (@FarabaughFB) November 13, 2025
Samuel is coming off an extended layoff after having spinal fusion surgery, which he said was done to fix a condition that has affected him for years. He stated he now feels healthier than ever, and if that’s true, the Steelers may have found a diamond in the rough.
He was one of the best free agents on the market this offseason after grabbing two interceptions in each of his first three years in the league with the Chargers. He appeared in just four games last year, but the Steelers are hoping they can restart his career.
He turned 26 in October, so there may be plenty left in the tank. It will be fun to see how Pittsburgh deploys its new weapon in an effort to improve a secondary that was in need of a jolt.
NEXT: Chargers CB Is Quietly Having An Elite Season