The Pittsburgh Steelers aren’t talking to other teams about trading Joey Porter Jr. right now. While trade rumors often swirl around big names in the NFL, the front office isn’t answering the phone for a deal. There is a lot of noise out there, but the actual conversations just aren’t happening.
According to reports, no discussions of that kind have taken place. It’s easy to get caught up in the hype when a star player’s future feels uncertain. However, the reality on the ground is much quieter than the rumors suggest.
The reality of the trade rumors
Jordan Schultz noted that several teams in the league have wondered about a potential trade for the young cornerback. The interest exists because of where the market sits for defensive backs. Specifically, “(Porter) is in the final year of his rookie contract, and with where the CB market is, teams have wondered if Pittsburgh could ultimately be open to a move with the Pro Bowl caliber corner,” per reports.
The money in the league is moving fast. The top of the market for cornerbacks is now well over $30 million per year on average. We saw this with Devon Witherspoon and his four-year, $132 million extension with the Seahawks. Porter’s next deal will likely be much higher than the extensions given to recent draft picks like Nick Herbig, Darnell Washington, or Keeanu Benton.
Porter’s current status in camp
It isn’t all smooth sailing for the defense right now. A reported back injury placed Porter on the physically unable to perform list when training camp began. It’s a tough way to start the summer for a player who is so vital to the secondary. Even with the injury news, the team seems focused on the long term.
Some writers, including Alan Saunders of Steelers Now, believe it would be a surprise if the team moved on from Porter this year. The roster is still finding its shape. While the back-and-forth between a player and a team continues until a deal is reached, the current focus remains on the field.
Looking ahead to the preseason
The preseason is heating up with plenty of roster battles. Tonight, Will Howard and Drew Allar are set to get all the reps. The Jets are expected to play their starters, while the Steelers will likely rest theirs. It is a smart move given that some starting receivers are still dealing with injuries.
The team is also keeping an eye on the trenches. Andy Weidl has emphasized that building the trenches is the main goal for Pittsburgh. As the preseason winds down, every play counts for those fighting to stay on the 53-man roster.
