Source: Fox Sports
Summary
Mike McCarthy said the Pittsburgh Steelers and cornerback Joey Porter Jr. are at an impasse over a new contract. Porter was placed on the physically unable to perform list due to a back issue. The Steelers have locked up other 2023 draft picks, but Porter’s status remains uncertain. He is in the final year of his rookie deal and has not participated in team activities. McCarthy said the situation is a challenge, as the entire defensive staff is in its first season. Jalen Ramsey and Max Iheanachor returned to practice, but Porter remains out.
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The Steelers are still figuring things out, and Porter’s not helping.
Author: Evan Null
Mike McCarthy and the Contract Impasse
Mike McCarthy is trying to work with Joey Porter Jr., but the Steelers and the cornerback are stuck in a contract impasse. McCarthy said the situation is a challenge, especially with the entire defensive staff in its first season. Porter was placed on the physically unable to perform list due to a back issue, but the real issue is the contract negotiations.
Porter’s Final Season and Uncertain Future
Porter is in the final year of his four-year deal, and the Steelers have locked up other members of the 2023 draft class. However, Porter’s status remains uncertain. He has not participated in team activities and is not expected to take the field before the season opener against Atlanta. His performance last season and his belief that he is one of the top players at his position have fueled his contract demands.
The Back Issue and Contract Holdout
Porter’s back issue is part of the reason he hasn’t taken the field, but it’s not the only issue. He held out during minicamp, participating in individual drills but not full 11-on-11 work. This is a common tactic for players seeking new contracts. McCarthy said the situation is a challenge, but he also emphasized the need to separate business from football.
Other Players Returning to Practice
While Porter remains out, veteran defensive back Jalen Ramsey and rookie offensive tackle Max Iheanachor returned to practice. Ramsey, who has been on the PUP list since minicamp, said the defense is still getting up to speed. Iheanachor, who hurt his upper body in August, is expected to return soon, but McCarthy is not ruling out his participation in the preseason finale.
The Steelers’ Defensive Challenges
The Steelers’ defensive staff is in its first season, and the team is still figuring things out. McCarthy said the organization has its beliefs, and the situation with Porter is a challenge. Ramsey, a veteran, said the defense needs to pay Porter, but the Steelers are not moving quickly on a new deal. The team is still trying to get its defense ready for the season opener against the Falcons.
