Steelers Sign WR Thielen, Release CB Slay in Roster Shakeup

The Pittsburgh Steelers made significant roster moves on Tuesday by claiming wide receiver Adam Thielen off waivers from the Minnesota Vikings and releasing cornerback Darius Slay. This decision comes as the Steelers aim to bolster their receiving corps while parting ways with a veteran cornerback.

Thielen, who is 35 years old, was waived by the Vikings on March 11, 2024, in search of a more prominent role as he approaches what he has indicated will be his final season in the NFL. This season, he has recorded eight receptions for 69 yards across 11 games. Notably, Thielen had a standout season in 2023, achieving over 1,000 yards with 1,014 yards on 103 receptions while playing for the Carolina Panthers. Over his 12-year career, he has amassed a remarkable total of 693 catches for 8,380 yards and 64 touchdowns.

In a corresponding move, the Steelers signed cornerback Asante Samuel Jr. from the practice squad to the active roster. Samuel’s addition comes after Slay’s mutual decision to part ways with the team, as confirmed by his agents, Drew Rosenhaus and Robert Bailey. During a recent press conference, Steelers head coach Mike Tomlin emphasized that Slay’s inactivity in the recent game against the Buffalo Bills was primarily a strategic choice aimed at evaluating Samuel rather than a reflection of Slay’s performance.

Slay, 34, joined the Steelers on a one-year, $10 million contract after winning the Super Bowl with the Philadelphia Eagles. He started nine games this season but faced challenges, including a concussion that sidelined him for the Week 11 matchup against the Cincinnati Bengals. Upon his return in Week 12 against the Chicago Bears, Slay played a limited role, contributing just 20 snaps—his fewest of the season, aside from the injury-shortened game against the Los Angeles Chargers.

In his brief tenure with the Steelers, Slay recorded three passes defensed, one fumble recovery, and 36 total tackles, along with one tackle for loss. As the Steelers prepared to face the Ravens on March 17, 2024, Samuel stepped up in Slay’s absence, playing 28 defensive snaps and making three tackles after James Pierre exited the game due to a concussion.

Tomlin’s remarks about Samuel highlight the coaching staff’s interest in his potential. “We liked some of the things that we saw,” Tomlin stated, indicating that Samuel may play an increased role moving forward. With Slay’s departure and Pierre still in concussion protocol, the Steelers will look to Samuel to contribute significantly in their upcoming game.

As the Steelers navigate these roster changes, the focus will be on how Thielen integrates into the team’s strategy and how Samuel continues to develop in a more prominent position on defense.