Steelers Make Major Joey Porter Jr. Move on Sunday

The Pittsburgh Steelers have activated cornerback Joey Porter Jr. off the PUP list ahead of the 2026 season.

Porter is one of the best cornerbacks in the league and is seeking a contract extension as he enters the final year of his rookie deal.

The 26-year-old has played at a high level in his first three seasons in the league. In his rookie year in 2023, he finished with 43 total tackles, a tackle for loss, 10 pass deflections, and an interception.

Porter played well again in the 2024 season, recording 70 total tackles, two tackles for loss, seven pass deflections, and an interception. In 2025, he was elite once again, as he had 52 total tackles, a sack, 14 pass deflections, and an interception.

The Steelers have a talented roster, and having Porter healthy is pivotal for their secondary. Pittsburgh may have the best secondary in the NFL with Porter, Jamel Dean, and Jalen Ramsey.

Pittsburgh still needs to work out a new contract with Porter, and he is likely to become one of the highest-paid defensive backs in the league. Although he is one of the best players at his position, the Steelers would have to commit to him on a big deal.

Seattle Seahawks cornerback Devon Witherspoon reset the cornerback market this offseason, inking a four-year, $132 million deal. Porter will likely be in the same ballpark for his new contract whether it's with the Steelers or with a new team after the 2026 season.

Pittsburgh has an elite defense and has some quality pieces, with veteran quarterback Aaron Rodgers leading the offseason in his last season in the league. Rodgers is coming off a solid season with the Steelers, in which he led them to an AFC North title and a playoff appearance.

The 42-year-old quarterback completed 65.7 percent of his passes for 3,322 yards, 24 touchdowns, and seven interceptions in 2025. While he is no longer an MVP candidate, he is still one of the best quarterbacks in the league.

Pittsburgh is under a new head coach, Mike McCarthy, but with Porter and other talented pieces on the roster, they will be in contention for a playoff spot once again.