New Information Gives Steelers Fans Questionable Update On Marquez Valdes-Scantling And Asante Samuel Jr.

The Pittsburgh Steelers brought in four-time NFL MVP Aaron Rodgers to hopefully end the organization's near-decade long postseason win drought. There have been both ups and downs, and, most notably, the quarterback just suffered a broken wrist, putting his status up in the air for Week 12 and beyond. The team has been inconsistent on both sides of the ball, which is why the coaching staff has had to get creative more often than fans would like. Another piece to the puzzle is adding to the roster via free agency. General Manager Omar Khan was recently able to land both Marquez Valdes-Scantling and Asante Samuel Jr.

Both players were signed to the practice squad and technically can be added to any other team's active roster at any time if they're not protected by the Steelers. With that said, it would be either Valdes-Scantling's or Samuel's decision to stay with the Steelers or not. Both individuals know that their respective numbers will be called at some point, and fans are looking forward to the duo making their debuts in the black and gold. Valdes-Scantling may be a little bit closer than Samuel.

Overall, these guys were brought in to make a difference down the stretch. No matter how big or small of an impact they make, it's impossible for either to contribute unless they are promoted to the 53-man roster. That takes time in these situations, depending on opportunity, conditioning and trust. Neither may be warming up on game day any time soon, however.

Gerry Dulac of the Pittsburgh Post-Gazette hosted a fan chat on Wednesday to answer questions that the Black and Gold faithful are curious about. Someone brought up the prospect of Valdes-Scantling or Samuel being elevated in Week 12 for the game against the Chicago Bears. The reporter gave as simple of a response as possible, shutting down the idea.

"Nope," Dulac wrote.

When someone else chimed in asking if the wide receiver specifically could potentially be suiting up in the Windy City, Dulac used even less characters to get his message across.

"No," Dulac noted.

There will be a time and place for both Valdes-Scantling and Samuel to be active for meaningful games, but it's about getting them up to speed right now. Specifically for Samuel, as he works his back from offseason back surgery. Even when he does get the nod, he may not be getting as many snaps as some thought he might. There were reasons for the two being free agents this late in the year in the first place.

Entering Week 12, the Steelers have a record of 6-4. With the playoffs, and an AFC North division title well within reach, it will be crucial to get the two newcomers up and running, but at their own pace. No one is in panic mode and desiring their elevations immediately. It's a process to get guys ready, which is why Dulac's analysis shouldn't really come as a surprise to many.

When thinking about which player may be needed more on the active roster, it's tough to analyze. Pittsburgh truly does need another receiver who can create separation and act as a downfield threat, but the secondary has been so up-and-down for the majority of the season. Both could find ways to contribute; however, fans are going to have to wait for the time being.

Steelers Will Promote Both Valdes-Scantling And Samuel When They Are Ready

It has yet to be determined if the two recent signees will move on up to the 53-man roster at the same time. What's clear is that Pittsburgh's coaching staff is not in a hurry for either to dress on game days just yet. As the weeks progress and holidays inch closer, it will be interesting to see when it is decided that one, or both, are ready to make the leap.

Which recently-signed veteran do you think the Steelers need the most help from? Let us know in the comments below!

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