Why Asante Samuel Jr. was still a free agent before signing with Steelers

Editorial Team
Why Asante Samuel Jr. was still a free agent before signing with Steelers image

The Pittsburgh Steelers have bolstered their secondary again.

And again, they touched the New England Patriots' bloodline to do it.

After acquiring Kyle Dugger in a trade from the Pats recently, the Steelers have now signed the son of Patriots legend Asante Samuel.

The son, also a cornerback, is fittingly named Asante Samuel Jr.

MORE: The Brian Daboll firing is all about Jaxson Dart

He took a slew of visits in recent weeks before picking Pittsburgh as his destination.

Why was Asante Samuel Jr. Still a free agent before signing with Steelers?

Samuel was injured, prolonging his free agency.

He had spinal-fusion surgery in the offseason.

But now he's healthy and ready to rock. The Steelers signed him to the practice squad to pace him, but he'll likely be promoted to the active roster soon.

Samuel Jr. Turned 26 in October. He has 37 passes defensed and six interceptions through four NFL seasons.

This certainly seems like a key pickup for the Steelers.

More NFL news:

Contributing Writer