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CB Samuel ends holdout, report to Patriots camp

Danny Dabiri |Aug 30,2007

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CB Samuel ends holdout, report to Patriots camp

The New England Patriots’ championship aspirations received a boost with the return of Pro Bowl cornerback Asante Samuel, who signed a one-year deal worth $7.79 million on Monday. The former fourth round pick out of Central Florida had been holding out in hopes of landing a long-term contract from the Pats. After the two sides were unable to reach an agreement, the club designated Samuel as the team’s franchise player. Samuel pulled down a league best 10 interceptions last season. Unhappy with his contract situation, Samuel failed to report to camp for 31 days and threatened to hold out until the tenth week of the season.

In his first appearance at Gillette Stadium, Samuel appeared very content while fielding questions from reporters in the New England locker room.

“Both sides are happy. I’m good. I’m ready to play football,” Samuel said.

The Patriots secondary will be significantly better with Samuel on the field. He should step right in as the starter opposite Ellis Hobbs. Samuel does not expect the starting job to simply be handed to him.

“I have to earn my keep and I’m here to do that and I have no problem with that,” said Samuel.

There is little doubt that Samuel will do what it takes to get on the field. He is the best corner on the roster. Randall Gay and Dante Wesley should provide depth and experience to the unit. Unfortunately, given the team’s past history with contract issues, it is very likely that the two sides will be facing off in another contract squabble next year. If Samuel can duplicate his performance from last season, the Patriots will be hard pressed not to shell out the dough.

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