Despite all of the quarterback discourse, intrigue around a whole new coaching staff, and surprise rookie performances that have taken place this summer for the Pittsburgh Steelers, one story has remained at the front of everyone's mind: What in the world is going on with Joey Porter Jr.?
Ever since he landed on the PUP (Physically Unable to Perform) list with a back injury at the start of camp, fans have been waiting to find out if and when the Steelers would extend Porter the same way they did several of his fellow 2023 draftees earlier this summer. With the regular season under two weeks away, it appears we aren't any closer to a resolution.
Porter spoke with reporters Tuesday, and his answers to several of their questions didn't exactly instill confidence in a deal getting done any time soon.
Joey Porter Jr. leaves Pittsburgh Steelers fans with more questions than answers about his future
Porter had plenty to say about where things stand with him and the team, but the most notable quote was regarding his Week 1 status if a deal isn't reached. “I don’t know," Porter told the media at Steelers practice. "I have to talk to the guys upstairs, my agents about that one.”
Yikes. Not exactly what you want to hear from your top corner. It makes sense that he wouldn't want to commit to playing without a new deal, as it would remove one of the few pieces of leverage he has. However, the Steelers' self-imposed rule of not negotiating with players during the season makes the idea of him sitting out feel extremely unlikely.
Not only would he miss out on the chance to put another full year of quality tape out there (especially on the best defensive roster he has played with), but his contract would toll if he didn't return by Week 10. I just don't see that happening, even if Porter wants the Steelers to believe it could.
The young defender also did his best to put the onus on the team to get the deal done. Porter was asked about the likelihood of a new contract being hammered out before the season, and he had this to say about where things are:
"I mean, I could hope and think all day," Porter told reporters. "But really, it's up to those guys upstairs and what they want to do with this team. So all I could do is just show up every day to work and be prepared."
It sure sounds like Porter and his representation have a deal in mind that would make him happy to re-enter the fold, but the Steelers front office may not be interested in handing out. Hopefully, we get a decision soon one way or the other.
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