Joey Porter Jr. is officially back on the field, baby! The Steelers activated their cornerback from the physically unable to perform list on Sunday, which is huge because it means Porter Jr. can practice with the team and play in Week 1. This whole situation has been hanging over the team all offseason, with Porter Jr. obviously pushing for that contract extension.
Contract Talks: Closed for Business
Even with Porter Jr. cleared for action, don’t expect any news on that extension anytime soon. There’s been no sign of a deal brewing, and Steelers General Manager Omar Khan just laid down the law on Monday. He confirmed what everyone kinda knows about this organization: they cut off all contract talks once the regular season starts. It’s their philosophy, plain and simple, and they are sticking to it. Khan didn’t get into the nitty-gritty of where things stand on the negotiating front, but the message is crystal clear: the focus is on football, not paperwork, right now.
What Omar Khan Really Thinks
Despite the contract freeze-out, Khan still hopes for a long future with Porter Jr. He actually said he hopes “Joey finishes his career here.” That’s a pretty strong statement from a GM, especially when a player’s been looking for an extension that hasn’t materialized. Khan made it clear they expect anyone who’s healthy and available to be out there practicing, and that obviously includes Porter Jr. It shows the team wants him on the field, contributing, even if the money talks are on hold.
Week 1 is Calling
So, what’s next? Porter Jr. is good to go for Week 1. The contract stuff is on pause, but the team’s commitment to him, at least in words, is still there. Now it’s about getting ready for the season opener. You gotta wonder how this plays out through the season, with that extension still looming. But for now, get ready to see Porter Jr. out there when it counts.
This article was created with AI assistance and published under Seattle On Tap’s editorial standards. See our Editorial Policy.
Originally reported by Pro Football Talk.
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