Asante Samuel Jr. Emerging as Steelers' CB1 With Joey Porter Jr. Sidelined
With Porter on PUP for a back issue, Samuel has racked up multiple pass breakups and near-interceptions. Mike McCarthy says his 'ball skills are off the charts.'
Pittsburgh Steelers cornerback Asante Samuel Jr. has stepped into the CB1 role with Joey Porter Jr. sidelined on the PUP list with a back issue, racking up multiple pass breakups and near-interceptions through the first week of camp. "His ball skills are off the charts," coach Mike McCarthy said.
How serious is Porter's back issue?
Porter's exact timeline hasn't been made public, but his placement on the PUP list means he's not yet cleared for practice, leaving Samuel to soak up the top cornerback reps in the meantime.
What else is standing out on offense?
Receiver Roman Wilson has drawn increased attention from the new coaching staff, with both Aaron Rodgers and DK Metcalf praising his development entering his third season. Offensive lineman Broderick Jones also returned to practice this week for the first time since a season-ending November neck injury, working at both tackle spots with the second team.
How is McCarthy shaping camp overall?
The coach has prioritized situational football, running two-minute drill work daily, noting that more than half of games come down to final-drive scenarios that preseason games don't naturally create reps for.
Players in this story
Sources
- ESPN: 2026 Pittsburgh Steelers training camp: Latest intel, updates
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