The Pittsburgh Steelers are shaking things up at cornerback, making a controversial move that has fans and analysts alike buzzing. According to NFL Network's Tom Pelissero, Darius Slay is being released, and Asante Samuel Jr. is being promoted from the practice squad to the active roster.
Slay, who was a healthy scratch in the previous game against the Bills, was reportedly hoping for a release to explore other opportunities. His contract, signed in March for a modest $10 million, included a substantial signing bonus of $8.74 million and a low base salary of $1.255 million. This structure means that any team claiming him on waivers would only be on the hook for approximately $350,000 for the remainder of the season's base salary.
The Steelers' decision to part ways with Slay is reportedly aligned with head coach Mike Tomlin's philosophy that players should be volunteers, not hostages. This move comes as a disappointment for Slay, who was expected to be a key contributor to the team's defense. However, the Steelers' strategy of waiving players who don't fit their vision is a common practice in the NFL, and it remains to be seen if Samuel Jr. will be able to fill the void left by Slay.
Asante Samuel Jr., a former second-round draft pick, brings a different dynamic to the cornerback position. His addition to the active roster could indicate a shift in the team's strategy, potentially focusing on a more aggressive approach to defense. The Steelers' decision to promote Samuel Jr. and release Slay is a bold move that could have significant implications for the team's performance and future roster moves.
