The Pittsburgh Steelers executed several significant roster changes on Tuesday, claiming veteran wide receiver Adam Thielen off waivers while parting ways with six-time Pro Bowl cornerback Darius Slay. The team is also promoting Asante Samuel Jr. from the practice squad to the active roster.
Thielen Arrives in Pittsburgh
Thielen, 35, was waived by the Minnesota Vikings after requesting a release to pursue more playing time in what is expected to be his final NFL season.
- 2025 Stats (Vikings): 8 receptions, 69 yards in 11 games
- Career: 693 catches, 8,380 yards, 64 touchdowns in 173 games
The two-time Pro Bowler, who signed a three-year deal with the Carolina Panthers in 2023, was traded back to Minnesota in August 2025. He had been inactive for Sunday’s 26–0 loss to Seattle as his role continued to diminish.
Steelers, Darius Slay Mutually Part Ways
The Steelers also announced a mutual separation with Darius Slay, who was a healthy scratch during Pittsburgh’s 26–7 loss to Buffalo. Slay had been benched the week prior and saw his snaps steadily decline.
- 2025 Stats: 36 tackles, 1 fumble recovery in 10 games (9 starts)
- Career: 28 interceptions, 163 passes defensed in 187 games
Slay, who turns 35 on January 1, plans to continue his NFL career and is open to signing with another team.
Asante Samuel Jr. Elevated After Injury Return
The Steelers are promoting Asante Samuel Jr., 26, from the practice squad to the active roster, per ESPN.
Samuel entered Sunday’s game after James Pierre exited with a concussion.
- Played 28 defensive snaps
- Recorded 3 tackles
The appearance marked Samuel’s first game action in 14 months following spinal fusion surgery.
A former second-round pick of the Los Angeles Chargers, Samuel has played in 50 career games (47 starts) from 2021–24, totaling:
- 179 tackles
- 6 interceptions
- 37 passes defensed
