Asante Samuel Jr. Cleared for Play After Spine Surgery, Plans NFL Free Agent Visits

Asante Samuel Jr., a 26-year-old free agent cornerback, has been medically cleared to resume football activities following spinal fusion surgery performed in April by Dr. David Okonkwo, the Pittsburgh Steelers' neurosurgeon. Samuel, who played four games in the 2024 season before being placed on injured reserve due to a stinger condition affecting both shoulders—a condition he has had since birth—plans to visit NFL teams this week as several franchises seek cornerback depth ahead of the trade deadline. Drafted by the Los Angeles Chargers in the second round of the 2021 NFL Draft, Samuel has accumulated 176 tackles, six interceptions, and 37 pass breakups over 50 games, earning recognition as a top free agent in the market prior to his injury. Medical evaluations by both Dr. Okonkwo and spinal trauma expert Dr. Nicholas Theodore have confirmed his readiness to return to play. Despite his recent injury-shortened season, Samuel remains regarded as a key defensive playmaker with potential value for teams looking to bolster their secondary without giving up assets in trades. His free agency visits come at a crucial time as teams position themselves ahead of the NFL's trade deadline.