Los Angeles Chargers: 1 Major Reason for Star’s Free Agent Status

The Los Angeles Chargers boasted one of the league’s top pass defenses, allowing the seventh-fewest passing yards in 2024. Since their secondary performed well, two of their top free-agent defensive backs were rewarded with contract extensions or signed elsewhere for a favorable amount. The Chargers retained Elijah Molden to a three-year, $18.5 million extension, while Kristian Fulton signed a two-year, $20 million contract with the Kansas City Chiefs.

Also Read: Los Angeles Chargers: Announce Massive News Regarding Defensive Back Who Broke Out in 2024

However, that cannot be said of their top-free agent defensive back.

The Los Angeles Chargers star CB remains unsigned

Asante Samuel Jr. surprisingly remains unsigned roughly four weeks following the opening of the tampering window. Samuel suffered a shoulder injury and a stinger after a collision in practice leading up to Week 1. He played through the injury but aggravated it, experiencing stinger symptoms in both of his shoulders after another collision in practice leading up to Week 6. As a result, the Chargers placed him on season-ending injured reserve, limiting him to a career-low four games.

An NFL Network insider reveals why he remains unsigned.

Here’s 1 major reason for star’s free agent status

During an appearance with the PHNX podcast on Thursday, Mike Garafolo explained why Asante Samuel Jr. remains unsigned despite being a star cornerback and previously visiting with the Arizona Cardinals in March. Garafolo explains that his free agent status has nothing to do with his abilities on the football field but rather his injury during his fourth season.

“It’s a medical thing. I’ve heard that from teams,” Garafolo said. “If not, he’d be signed because he’s young and has enough ability. It’s a shoulder/neck issue, but I don’t have the full details. He (Samuel) did mention that at the start of free agency. Certainly, there’s an indication of red flags for teams.”