Mike McCarthy was asked about Nick Herbig’s contract situation just moments before the Pittsburgh Steelers announced the historic extension.
His answer aged fast, but it easily applies to another young defender in Pittsburgh’s locker room.
McCarthy has been around the block and has addressed these situations more than once. Instead of getting caught up in the tension that comes with contract talks, he framed it as part of life in the NFL, where players and coaches understand that business and football sometimes have to exist in separate lanes.
“I think it's like everything in life, frankly. There's a personal side to this; there's a professional side to this," McCarthy said.
Joey Porter Jr. remains in the shoes Herbig occupied only hours before his deal was finalized. He’s at minicamp. He’s in meetings. He’s around the team. But he’s not participating in individual or team drills as he waits for his own contract situation to play out.
That’s not unusual. It’s also not reckless. It’s a common approach for players who know one wrong step could change everything.
Mike McCarthy’s contract stance says plenty about Pittsburgh Steelers defender Joey Porter Jr.
McCarthy said he tries to keep those situations in the right category.
“When those things occur, I really, frankly, just put that into a business category,” McCarthy said.
That’s easier said than done when the player involved is a major piece of the defense, and Porter absolutely qualifies.
Through three seasons, Porter has totaled 165 tackles, 31 passes defended, three interceptions, and one sack. Those numbers don’t fully explain his value to Pittsburgh. Porter gives the Steelers a long, physical outside corner who can handle tough matchups and let the defense stay aggressive elsewhere.
That’s a valuable player type in any era, but especially now, when top corners are getting paid like franchise-building blocks.
McCarthy seemed to understand that side of it. He said these decisions can “change the course” of a player’s life and family life, and that’s not something he takes for granted.
At the same time, his job is still to coach the player.
“I’m also in charge of the football player, so we don't lose sight of that,” McCarthy said.
That’s the balance the Steelers have to strike with Porter. They need him locked in for 2026 and beyond, but they also know his price won’t get any cheaper.
Herbig’s extension showed Pittsburgh’s willingness to pay young defensive talent before the situation drags too far. Porter could be next in line, and McCarthy’s answer already gave the Steelers’ side of the story.
Add us as a preferred source on Google