A Steelers source told ESPN that Joey Porter Jr.'s run in Pittsburgh is over.
"I don't know if he ever puts on a Steelers uniform again."
That's a quote from a Pittsburgh Steelers source to ESPN about Joey Porter Jr.
The Steelers didn't sign Porter Jr. to an extension before the season began and the talented defender didn't play in Week 1 against the Atlanta Falcons.
Porter Jr. has watched as the Steelers extended several players this offseason, as Nick Herbig, Keeanu Benton and Darnell Washington all got new deals. He wants to get paid too, but Pittsburgh and Porter Jr. haven't come close to a new contract.
In 14 games for the Steelers last season, Porter Jr. had one interception, 14 passes defended, one sack and 35 solo tackles.
Porter Jr. has three interceptions and 31 passes defended in 47 games with the Steelers. He's been leaning on his dad and former Steelers player and coach, Joey Porter Sr., for counsel during the process.
"He's been giving me great advice," Porter Jr. said. "I can't say too much on what he's been saying to me, but he's been giving me great advice. He's been in my corner my whole life, so I wouldn't think he would steer me in the wrong direction."
Porter acknowledged that his contract negotiation process has been difficult.
The Steelers face the New York Jets in Week 2.
"It's been tough, not going to lie," Porter Jr. said. "It's my first go around [with] this, but I mean, it's been also great because I have all my guys with me, all the coaches and players really are on my side, really understand everything about the business side of things. ... But at the end of the day, it is what it is."
It's unknown if Porter Jr. will play in Week 2. The Steelers beat the Falcons in Week 1.
"I learned this in my early years as a head coach: You have to separate the business and football," Steelers head coach Mike McCarthy said. "Sometimes it's easier than others. This is a challenge for both Joey and us because we're first-year staff. We've seen them play, compete against Joey.
"I would love the opportunity to coach Joey Porter. I know our defensive guys would love the opportunity. So we're at an impasse right here, and you've got to respect that. Every one of us has a contract. The organization, they have beliefs and so forth. But yeah, that's just kind of where we are."
