Steelers CB Joey Porter Jr.’s stance reportedly hurt standing with new coaches

The Pittsburgh Steelers are dealing with a shaky start to training camp, and their defensive secondary is suddenly a major question mark. Star cornerback Joey Porter Jr. hit the Physically Unable to Perform (PUP) list right out of the gate after aggravating a back issue during a Tuesday morning mobility workout.

While the injury is a concern, Porter’s standing with the new coaching staff might be an even bigger headline.

According to Gerry Dulac of the Pittsburgh Post-Gazette via FOX Sports Pittsburgh, Porter’s decision to hold-in during spring workouts rubbed head coach Mike McCarthy and the new staff the wrong way.

“He did not do himself any favors by coming in with a new coaching staff and not doing anything in the spring,” Dulac reported. “That did not sit well with them.”

Porter, who is entering the final year of his rookie contract, wants a massive extension. Following a 2025 season where he recorded 52 tackles and a team-high 14 passes defended across 14 starts, he has proven his worth as a shutdown corner. While Dulac noted the hold-in won’t likely stop Pittsburgh from handing Porter a lucrative new deal, the tension is not a great look for the fourth-year pro as he tries to build trust with McCarthy and defensive coordinator Patrick Graham.

The timing is far from ideal. The Steelers’ secondary is already incredibly thin. Alongside Porter, Pittsburgh also placed veteran defensive back Jalen Ramsey and fellow cornerback Donte Kent on the PUP list to open camp. Ramsey is dealing with a knee issue from minicamp, and general manager Omar Khan expects him to miss a few weeks.

With Porter sidelined indefinitely and the defense missing key pieces, Pittsburgh desperately needs its top cover guy healthy and back in the new staff’s good graces before the season kicks off. Until he signs that dotted line, the drama in the Steel City will continue to simmer.

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