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Steelers Set to Add Asante Samuel Jr. to Practice Squad After Medical Clearance

The former Chargers starter was cleared following April spinal-fusion surgery to bolster Pittsburgh's injury-hit secondary.

Overview

  • ESPN reports the Steelers are signing the 26-year-old cornerback to their practice squad as they address depth concerns in the defensive backfield.
  • Samuel underwent spinal-fusion surgery in April after a 2024 season limited to four games and recently received clearance to resume football activities.
  • Teams prioritized medical evaluations during his tour, with the 49ers hosting an on-field workout confirmed by the NFL transaction wire.
  • Head coach Kyle Shanahan described San Francisco's session as a fact-finding check to gauge Samuel's current status rather than a typical tryout.
  • Pittsburgh's move follows injuries and role shuffles in the secondary, and Samuel brings 47 starts, six interceptions, and 37 passes defended across four NFL seasons.