Chargers select Asante Samuel Jr. in 2nd round

The Los Angeles Chargers selected cornerback Asante Samuel Jr. out of Florida State at No. 47 in the second round of the 2021 NFL Draft.

Samuel comes infused with NFL bloodlines, with his father Asante Samuel Sr. also enjoying a storied professional career. The latter was a two-time Super Bowl champion and four-time Pro Bowler.

Los Angeles' new corner recorded three interceptions during his final season at FSU. The 21-year-old stands at just 5-10 but played mainly on the outside for the Seminoles.

Samuel joins a Chargers secondary featuring safety Derwin James and cornerback Michael Davis. He could fill in on the boundary but also has the ability to slide into the slot.

Draft profile

Key stats: 30 tackles, 3 interceptions, 6 passes defended

Another prospect with NFL bloodlines, Samuel's natural feel may be unrivaled in the 2021 class of cornerbacks. The Florida State product is smooth and able to jump routes before the receiver can finish his break. Samuel should be a shoo-in first-round pick, but his height and length will scare a handful of teams away. However, size deficiencies didn't stop him from disrupting a number of targets at the catch point in college. Samuel's skill set translates perfectly to zone coverage, and he offers added versatility in the slot. Don't write him off because of his measurables - you'll be sorry you did.