Facing one of the league’s best wide receiver duos in Amari Cooper and Ceedee Lamb this past Sunday, Chargers cornerback Asante Samuel Jr. lived up to the challenge.
Samuel, the second-round pick, finished with two passes defensed and an interception, becoming the first Chargers defensive back since Antoine Cason in 2008 to register his first pick within his first two career games.
For his performance, Samuel was nominated as the NFL rookie of the week. Fans can vote here. A winner will be announced Friday
According to Pro Football Focus, Samuel has the lowest passer rating among rookie corners (46.3), leading Panthers’ Jaycee Horn (50.4) and 49ers’ Deommodore Lenior (65.8).
It’s been a great start to his professional career for the former Florida State product.