Joey Porter Jr.’s Back Is Hurting and His Contract Isn’t Signed and Pittsburgh Is Sweating Right Now

Joey Porter Jr.’s back is giving the Steelers a major headache right now, putting his Week 1 status against the Falcons in serious doubt. This isn’t just a minor bump, either. Pittsburgh just pulled Doneiko Slaughter off the practice squad for Sunday’s game, a move that screams “we need help, NOW!”

Porter Jr.’s Double Whammy: Injury AND Contract

This whole situation is a total mess for the Steelers, and it’s not just one problem, it’s two. Porter Jr. has been listed as questionable to play because of a back injury. What’s worse? This isn’t a new issue that just popped up; the injury limited him in practice all week. That’s never what you want to hear from a key player, especially heading into the first game of the season. When a guy misses that much practice, you know it’s a real concern, not just something he’s shaking off.

Pittsburgh’s Policy Creates Added Pressure

But wait, there’s more to this whole mess than just a sore back. Porter Jr. isn’t just dealing with an injury; he’s also chasing a contract extension. And this is where things get really sticky for the Steelers. They’ve got this hardline policy where they won’t even talk negotiations once the season kicks off. So, if Porter Jr. wants that deal done, it had to happen *before* Sunday. With his status already unclear because of the injury, throwing a contract dispute into the mix just multiplies the uncertainty for his availability against the Falcons.

Doneiko Slaughter Steps Up for Week 1

With Porter Jr.’s situation completely up in the air due to both his back and the contract standoff, the Steelers didn’t waste any time making a move. They elevated Doneiko Slaughter from the practice squad for Week 1. This guy went undrafted in 2025, originally signed by the Jaguars, and then inked a future contract with Pittsburgh back in January. He’s now got to be ready to contribute immediately. All eyes are on Pittsburgh, waiting for the final word on Porter Jr.’s availability. We’ll know for sure no later than 90 minutes before kickoff on Sunday. With so much up in the air, especially at such a critical position, the Steelers need clarity fast if they want to start the season strong against the Falcons. This is not how you want to kick off Week 1, that’s for sure.

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Originally reported by Pro Football Talk.