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Steelers Retain Cornerback Asante Samuel Jr. on One-Year Deal
The former Chargers player will stay in Pittsburgh after impressing in limited action last season.
Mar. 15, 2026 at 7:18pm
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The Pittsburgh Steelers have re-signed cornerback Asante Samuel Jr. to a one-year, $4 million contract with $2.875 million guaranteed. Samuel, 26, joined the Steelers last November after being released by the Los Angeles Chargers and made a strong impression in limited playing time, recording an interception against the Miami Dolphins.
Why it matters
Keeping Samuel provides stability and depth in the Steelers' secondary, which was hit hard by injuries last season. As the son of former NFL star Asante Samuel, the younger Samuel brings both talent and experience to the team's defensive backfield.
The details
According to reports, Samuel's new contract with the Steelers includes a $1.215 million salary. He initially signed to the Steelers' practice squad in November 2025 after being released by the Chargers, where he had played his first four NFL seasons. Samuel then was thrust into the starting lineup a few weeks later due to injuries in the Steelers' secondary, and he responded with a strong performance that included an interception against the Miami Dolphins.
- Samuel signed to the Steelers' practice squad on November 11, 2025.
- Three weeks later, Samuel was inserted into the starting lineup due to injuries.
- On March 15, 2026, Samuel signed a new one-year, $4 million contract to remain with the Steelers.
The players
Asante Samuel Jr.
A 26-year-old cornerback who was a second-round draft pick of the Los Angeles Chargers in 2021. He has 50 career starts, 7 interceptions, and 38 passes defended.
Omar Khan
The general manager of the Pittsburgh Steelers, who made re-signing Samuel Jr. one of his first moves in free agency.
What they’re saying
“#Steelers Asante Samuel Jr: $4M one year, $2.875M gtd. Salary: $1.215M”
— Aaron Wilson, NFL Reporter (KPRC2)
What’s next
The Steelers will look to further bolster their secondary through the 2026 NFL Draft, where they hold the 17th overall pick.
The takeaway
By retaining Asante Samuel Jr. on a team-friendly one-year deal, the Steelers have secured a talented young cornerback who can provide valuable depth and experience to their defensive backfield as they look to build on a promising 2025 season.
