NFL insider Jordan Schultz just dropped a bomb, and it’s got the whole league buzzing: multiple teams are “wondering” about Pittsburgh Steelers cornerback Joey Porter Jr. as a potential trade target. Why? Because opposing front offices are watching Pittsburgh like a hawk, especially with how wild the cornerback market has gotten lately.
Pittsburgh’s Headache on the Corner
Porter Jr. is entering his fourth season, picked up by the Steelers in the second round of the 2023 draft. He’s blossomed into their No. 1 corner, no doubt, coming off a 2025 campaign where he piled up 52 tackles, defended 14 passes, snagged one sack, and pulled down one interception. Pro Football Focus says he allowed a mere 56.2 passer rating when targeted, which is legit. But here’s the kicker: the dude has yet to practice in training camp, stuck on the physically unable to perform list after aggravating a back injury. Add to that, he was “holding in” during mandatory minicamp back in June, clearly looking for a new contract. He’s got a $4.9 million cap hit for 2026, then he’s slated to hit free agency in 2027. Pittsburgh has a decision to make.
The Emerald City’s Big Money Moves The Market
The reason teams are circling Porter Jr. like sharks? Look no further than the massive deals flying around for top cornerbacks this offseason. Our very own Seattle Seahawks made a monumental move, handing Devon Witherspoon a four-year extension worth a whopping $132 million last Saturday. Yeah, you heard that right, $132 million! And it’s not just us: the Cleveland Browns shelled out a two-year, $62.2 million extension for Denzel Ward on July 28. These deals are absolutely resetting the market. Suddenly, a guy like Porter Jr., a proven No. 1 corner on his rookie deal with free agency looming, becomes a massive asset or a massive problem depending on how Pittsburgh plays it. Without an extension agreement as Week 1 looms large, you can bet teams are monitoring the 26-year-old’s availability super closely.
So, what’s next for Porter Jr.? With his contract situation unresolved and Week 1 drawing closer, the pressure is on. Will the Steelers pony up the cash or risk losing him? Or will some other team snag him before the market goes even more bonkers? This whole situation is wild, and it’s a perfect example of how one big contract, even if it’s not yours, can totally shake up the league.
This article was created with AI assistance and published under Seattle On Tap’s editorial standards. See our Editorial Policy.
Originally reported by Bleacher Report.
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