Steelers defensive coordinator Teryl Austin anticipates the Miami Dolphins will attack the matchup between RB De’Von Achane and Pittsburgh’s cornerbacks on the perimeter. With James Pierre out with a calf injury, that puts Asante Samuel Jr. in line for his first start in Pittsburgh—and it will test the biggest question mark of his career so far. Can he tackle effectively out in space?
Samuel’s career missed tackle percentage is 13.1. For his three healthy seasons from 2021 to 2023, Samuel was tied for the third most missed tackles. His 24 missed tackles over that time was topped only by Eli Apple and James Bradberry at the cornerback position.