With stellar play against the Tennessee Titans, has Jaylen Samuels done enough to make the Pittsburgh Steelers 53-man roster?
Excuse me! While I pat myself on the back. Anyone who follows my writings, knows how I feel about running back, Jaylen Samuels.
Being in Atlantic Coast Conference territory, I’ve seen him play many times and each time he seemed to get better. So, I was ecstatic when the Pittsburgh Steelers drafted him in the fifth-round this year.
I love his combination of size, speed, vision and hands. He fits perfectly into offensive coordinator, Randy Fitchner’s, offense – As I’ve told anyone who would listen.
Samuels didn’t blow anyone away in his NFL debut. Playing sparingly against the Green Bay Packers he had 51 total yards: nine rushing attempts for 38 yards and a TD, and three receptions for 13 yards in mop up duty. Certainly, not impressive, but under the circumstances, not bad either.
It was, however, enough for the coaching staff to give him a longer look. So, when the Tennessee Titans came calling last Saturday night, the Steelers allowed Samuels to answer the bell. And answer the bell he did.
So much so, that the 3rd quarter turned into the “Jaylen Samuels Show,” where his ball skills were on full display. Touching the ball on seven straight plays. Ending up with 15 touches for 77 yards
He clearly showed he can be an effective NFL player. With his first carry, Samuels powered for an 18 yard gain by stiff-arming two defenders.
While running to his left on the third carry. Samuels patiently waited for the o-line to set the block that sprung him for the first down. No hurrying. No panicking, pure veteran move.
Then the piece de resistance. A 17 yard touchdown reception, catching a short pass, turning up field, breaking a tackle, weaving his way through the defense, before sticking the ball over the goal line.
Definitely Dancing with the Stars potential. Unfortunately, a penalty nullified the play. But not before Samuels showed he could be a formidable red zone weapon.
Samuels also demonstrated good field awareness. Knowing the down and distance. Knowing when to hit the hole hard. Or when to wait for an opening. Showing amazing balance and fluidity. Twice eking out just enough yardage for first downs.
Any way you slice it. Jaylen Samuels is good. Worthy of the Pittsburgh Steelers’ confidence. His pass catching ability got him drafted. But his running ability will keep him in the league.
Last Saturday, Jaylen Samuels showed the football world that he isn’t afraid of the big stage. That he can beat you in many ways. That he’s exciting to watch. That he deserves to be a Pittsburgh Steeler.