Asante Samuel Jr. was an exciting addition to Pittsburgh’s defense last season, but he’s now being linked to trade rumors left and right following an offseason filled with cornerback additions.
From now until the start of the regular season, we at Steelers Wire will be analyzing every player on the roster. Here’s a look at Samuel and what could be in store for his 2026 season.
At a glance
- Height: 5-foot-10
- Weight: 180 pounds
- Age: 26 years old
- NFL experience: 6
Career with the Steelers
Samuel was drafted by the Chargers in the second round of the 2021 NFL Draft and spent his first four years in the NFL with Los Angeles. He underwent spinal fusion surgery in April 2025. As soon as he was cleared for football activities in November, Samuel signed with the Steelers’ practice squad. He would eventually be called up to the 53-man roster and appeared in six regular season games and one playoff matchup. Samuel finished the season with 10 combined tackles, one interception, and one pass defended.
What’s next in 2026?
One more season removed from his spinal fusion surgery, Samuel is expected to play a depth role behind cornerbacks Joey Porter Jr., Jamel Dean, and Jalen Ramsey in 2026. But there has been talk about Steelers rookie Daylen Everette eventually surpassing Samuel on the depth chart. Samuel is far too talented a cornerback to keep on the roster as a CB5, which is why some believe he could be a valuable trade asset to the Steelers.
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This article originally appeared on Steelers Wire: Steelers roster spotlight: Could Asante Samuel Jr. be a trade candidate?
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