The Philadelphia Eagles are poised to make waves in the NFL as they gear up for the upcoming season, with their cornerback position battle heating up. Kelee Ringo and veteran Adoree’ Jackson have been duking it out for the coveted CB2 spot opposite first-round pick Quinyon Mitchell. However, a new name has emerged as a potential game-changer for the Eagles’ secondary: free agent cornerback Asante Samuel Jr.
According to ESPN’s Jeremy Fowler, during a recent appearance on 97.5 The Fanatic, the Eagles have their eyes on Samuel, a former second-round pick by the Los Angeles Chargers in 2021. “Asante Samuel Jr., who is coming back from a neck injury, was one of the top free-agent corners,” Fowler revealed. “He probably won’t sign until late July. I do know the Eagles have thought about that one, and that’s on their radar as well.”

A Defensive Assassin with Elite Potential
At just 25 years old, Samuel Jr. brings a pedigree of elite coverage skills to the table. Despite being limited to only four games last season due to a shoulder injury, followed by neck surgery in April, Samuel has shown flashes of brilliance when healthy. Over his first three seasons with the Chargers, he racked up an impressive 35 pass breakups and six interceptions, showcasing his knack for disrupting passing plays.
ASANTE SAMUEL JR’S THIRD INT OF THE HALF! #SuperWildCard
📺: #LACvsJAX on NBC
📱: Stream on NFL+ https://t.co/LG9lf52l9m pic.twitter.com/fCECWjNCsl— NFL (@NFL) January 15, 2023
His standout performance came in an AFC Wild Card Game against the Jacksonville Jaguars, where he intercepted Trevor Lawrence three times in the first half alone—a testament to his ability to take over games. While Samuel isn’t known for his tackling, his coverage prowess makes him a potential “defensive assassin” who could elevate Philadelphia’s secondary to new heights.
A Familiar Legacy in Philadelphia
The Samuel name is no stranger to Eagles fans. Asante Samuel Sr., his father, was a fan favorite during his four-year stint with the team from 2008 to 2011. A three-time Pro Bowler and All-Pro selection, Samuel Sr. tied for the NFL lead in interceptions in 2009 with nine, cementing his legacy as one of the league’s premier ballhawks. Now, his son has the chance to follow in his footsteps and carve out his own legacy in the City of Brotherly Love.
The Eagles’ Reclamation Expertise
The Eagles, under the savvy leadership of general manager Howie Roseman, have a reputation for turning reclamation projects into success stories. Recent examples include Mekhi Becton, who signed a $10 million contract after thriving at right guard, and Isaiah Rodgers, who became a key contributor after joining the team during a gambling suspension. Samuel Jr., with his elite skill set and current recovery trajectory, could be the next player to benefit from Philadelphia’s knack for reviving careers.
Tipped and PICKED!
That’s Asante Samuel Jr.’s 2nd interception on the year. @godschild3_ #BoltUp
📺: #LACvsKC on CBS
📱: NFL app pic.twitter.com/yraioENrkv— NFL (@NFL) September 26, 2021
Samuel’s shoulder issues, which have persisted since childhood, per ESPN’s Kris Rihm, have not deterred his long-term outlook. With a clean bill of health expected after his July checkup, the young cornerback is likely to attract interest from multiple teams. However, the Eagles’ aggressive approach to roster-building and their need for depth at cornerback make them an ideal landing spot.
A Crowded but Talented Cornerback Room
The Eagles’ current cornerback roster is already stacked with talent, featuring Quinyon Mitchell, Cooper DeJean, Kelee Ringo, Adoree’ Jackson, Eli Ricks, Mac McWilliams, and Parry Nickerson. Adding Samuel Jr. to the mix would not only deepen their secondary but also align with Roseman’s strategy of acquiring high-upside players at a low cost. If Samuel can return to his pre-injury form, he could form a formidable trio alongside Mitchell and DeJean, creating one of the most dynamic defensive backfields in the NFL.
A Shock to the NFL?
The Eagles’ quiet pursuit of Samuel Jr. signals their intent to build a championship-caliber defense. With their recent Super Bowl victory and a roster brimming with young talent, Philadelphia is not content to rest on its laurels. Signing a player of Samuel’s caliber could send shockwaves through the league, reinforcing the Eagles as a team to beat in 2025.
As training camp approaches, all eyes will be on whether Samuel Jr. joins the Eagles’ roster and how he fits into their defensive scheme. If the Eagles can secure this “defensive assassin,” they may just have the final piece to dominate the NFL once again.