Though the Pittsburgh Steelers are assuming little risk by signing CB Asante Samuel Jr. to the practice squad midseason, his offseason spinal fusion surgery was enough to give teams plenty of pause. An injury and surgery that calls into question the future of any player, especially a cornerback reliant on athleticism. But NFL Network’s Ian Rapoport notes a key factor made Pittsburgh comfortable enough to take the chance. Rapoport noted Dr. David Okonkwo performed Samuels’ surgery, and his “first-hand knowledge” of his health made the Steelers willing to sign him.
“One added comfort level for the #Steelers: The doctor who performed Asante Samuel Jr’s surgery is Dr.