The Chargers secondary is talented yet young, and one player, in particular, shows how time indeed does fly.
Rookie cornerback Asante Samuel Jr. is the son of former Pro Bowler Asante Samuel Sr., who Patriots’ Bill Belichick coached nearly two decades ago.
Belichick shared his thoughts on facing the son of one of his former players: “It makes me feel old,” he said.
On the field, Samuel resembles his father’s confidence and ball skills, and it shows as he has two interceptions, five passes defended, and 15 tackles. The 5-foot-10, 180-pound rookie was drafted in the second round and many doubted his capabilities because of his smaller frame.
Nevertheless, after receiving Rookie of the Month in September, the 21-year-old is establishing a name for himself in the NFL. After earning the accolade, Samuel became the youngest Chargers cornerback to pick off a pass in the last 25 seasons.
The success of the rookie is reminiscent of his father, who also had a prosperous career. Drafted in 2003, Samuel Sr. played 11 seasons in the NFL and collected 51 interceptions throughout his time in the league. Additionally, he recorded 439 tackles and 164 pass defenses.
Along with the Patriots, Samuel Sr. played for the Philadelphia Eagles and Atlanta Falcons.
