Asante Samuel Jr. figures to be on the Pittsburgh Steelers’ 53-man roster sooner rather than later as his new team ranks last in the NFL in pass defense. However, the cornerback was just happy to take the field with the practice squad on Wednesday.

Samuel took part in the Steelers’ preparation for their game against the Cincinnati Bengals on Sunday at Acrisure Stadium. On Wednesday morning, the free agent signed with the Steelers a week after visiting their practice facility.

Seven months after spinal fusion surgery in his neck, Samuel was excited about being able to take part in football activities again. Being active for Sunday’s game would be a bonus.

"It's just day-by-day," Samuel said. "I'm trying to maximize every day and do whatever the coach is telling me and just get better every day."

Samuel could make an impact at cornerback if he regains his 2023 again after being limited to four games last season with the Los Angeles Chargers. Two years ago, Pro Football Focus ranked Samuel as the 25th-best corner in the NFL with a 73.9 grade.

The 26-year-old was the Chargers’ second-round draft pick in 2022 from Florida State. Samuel spent the first four years of his professional career with Los Angeles before becoming a free agent at the end of last season. Samuel played in 50 career games with the Chargers, starting 47, and had six interceptions and a fumble recovery.

Time will tell if Samuel regains his old form. For now, he is just thankful to no longer be rehabbing a serious injury.

"It meant the world to me just being out there, putting on a helmet, putting on cleats, going out there, competing with other guys that are trying to accomplish the same goal as me and just trying to win," Samuel said. "At the end of the day, it's all about winning and I know that's all it's about here, winning. It's a winning culture and I wanted to be a part of that.

"It's a great organization, great team, great guys, great coaching. There was nothing I didn't like about Pittsburgh. It's a great culture here. I'm glad I ended up here. I'm glad everything worked out to be here. I am blessed to be with great coaches and great teammates."