All CB projections   •  Current CB rankings   •   All PHI projections   •  PHI team report

CB Asante Samuel, Philadelphia Eagles

HT: 5-10, WT: 185, Born: 1-6-1981, College: Central Florida, Drafted: Round 4

2008 Projections

Best Case

Philadelphia secured the best defensive back available in the offseason when they signed Samuel via free agency. The Eagles were one of the worst teams in interceptions with only 11 last season, a big contributor to them finishing last in team turnovers with only 19. Samuel will be a central figure for DC Jim Johnson's aggressive defense as Samuel will often be paired with the #1 WR from the opposition. Samuel will have plenty of chances for tackles, pass defenses and interceptions in 2008.

Worst Case

As with any strong cornerback, there is the chance that the opposing team will look toward the other side and steer targets away from that side of the defense. Luckily for the Eagles, they have a strong secondary across the board with CB Sheldon Brown and SS Brian Dawkins to force QBs to try either side and hope for the best. One concern with Samuel is that he moved both teams (Patriots) and conferences, so an adjustment should be expected. Samuel's playmaking and statistical strength could be a part of the Patriots scheme and may not travel with Samuel to the Eagles.

Outlook

Philadelphia has already been raving about the playmaking ability of Samuel in early minicamps. Samuel has broken up several passes and picked off passes in practice -- but it is just practice. The Eagles do have one of the better secondaries in the NFC (and NFL) at this point, and the NFL is much more of a passing league. Samuel should be poised for a big season as DC Jim Johnson will be relying on him to cover man-to-man while apply pressure from the front seven with regularity. Look for Samuel to validate his big contract as he helps the Eagles boost their turnovers and overall defensive stats in 2008.

Writeups last modified: 2008-06-20 12:13:05