Steelers Sign Promising CB After Latest Darius Slay Injury

Originally posted on Athlon Sports | By Paul White | Last updated Nov 16, 2025 7:00 AM ET

There are very few NFL teams whose reputations stand the test of time, but the Pittsburgh Steelers are one of them.

They have intertwined great offenses along the way, but their calling card has been gritty defenses since at least as far back as the 1970s.

Current head coach Mike Tomlin typically has Pittsburgh among the best defenses in the league, however that has been far from the case this season.

Despite having one of the most expensive units in the league, which is led by perennial Defensive Player of the Year candidate T.J. Watt, the Steelers have struggled to stop opposing offenses.

Oct 12, 2025; Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, USA; Pittsburgh Steelers outside linebacker T.J. Watt (90) takes the field for a game against the Cleveland Browns at Acrisure Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Barry Reeger-Imagn Images© Barry Reeger-Imagn Images

They brought in former All-Pro cornerback Darius Slay in the offseason, but he has regressed considerably and struggled to stay on the field with constant injuries.

He was taken off the field once again on Sunday night and was evaluated for a concussion, which will sideline him today against the Cincinnati Bengals.

In light of this injury and the defensive struggles the Steelers have experienced, they decided to sign promising, young cornerback Asante Samuel Jr. to the practice squad.

Steelers signing CB Asante Samuel Jr. to practice squad. (via @RapSheet) pic.twitter.com/JuNvwfCGBl
— NFL (@NFL) November 11, 2025

Samuel Jr. broke out last season with the Los Angeles Chargers, but injuries ruined his free agency bid this offseason and have prevented him from being signed up until this point.

Considering his talent level, it’s hard to think that he’ll be on the practice squad for a long time.

Pittsburgh has made multiple moves to try and improve the secondary, but few have worked out.

They are hopeful that Samuel Jr. can be the missing piece that finally transforms the secondary and ultimately improves the defense in general.

This article first appeared on Athlon Sports and was syndicated with permission.

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