COSTA MESA, CA — Chargers rookie cornerback Asante Samuel Jr. won the Pepsi Rookie of the Week honors despite the team’s 20-17 loss to the Dallas Cowboys on Sunday at SoFi Stadium.
Samuel caught his first career intercepted pass in the first quarter against Cowboys quarterback Dak Prescott intended for CeeDee Lamb.
“It was definitely a blessing,” Samuel said on Thursday. “I want to thank my family, my friends, my fans for the Bolts nation, helping me to get where I’m at.”
With Samuel being named a starter before the season by head coach Brandon Staley, he’s been a great addition to the defense that includes Derwin James, Nasir Adderley. Samuel smuthered Amari Cooper from the opening quarter, and the skills set kicked it where Cooper was limited thanks to Samuel impeccable vision and ability.
He exuberates the confidence of a veteran, yet understands the work must be put in for every play, along with the fearless heart.
“Whether it’s a third-string receiver or Amari Cooper or the best receiver in the league, I am going to bring the same approach each week.”
Samuel even battle up against CeeDee Lamb with his amazing awareness of Lamb and Prescott which is not easy especially for a rookie. This is a different type of player, one who is determined to have no limits or restrictions on his quest to be one of the greatest before it’s all said and done. Samuel also was allowed to keep the football that he caught his first interception, so what happened to the ball?
He’s learning the ropes of the NFL and has had some lessons in these two regular season games that he recognizes and is committed to getting better weekly.
This Sunday he’ll have the tall task of defending Kansas City Chiefs wide receiver Mecole Hardman or speedy receiver Tyreek Hill along with keeping an eye on the illusive quarterback Patrick Mahomes. He’s ready to prove his worth in this league and he will be tested by the teachers or receivers every week.
