The Pittsburgh Steelers haven't had the services of star defensive back Joey Porter Jr. this season. Porter has been injured. Even though he has been listed as a full participant in a recent Steelers practice, Pittsburgh head coach Mike McCarthy is not sure that Porter will play.
“We hope so,” McCarthy said when asked if Porter would play in Pittsburgh's Week 4 contest, per The Athletic.
Joey Porter Jr. was a full participant yesterday for the first time this season.
Asked if that indicates the corner will play, Mike McCarthy said “We hope so.” pic.twitter.com/saYlyR50dC
— Mike DeFabo (@MikeDeFabo) September 29, 2026
Porter also has been looking for a new contract with the team. A deal didn't materialize before the start of the season. The Steelers don't typically engage in contract talks during the season. That is why Porter apparently won't get a new deal anytime soon.
Reports have swirled that the Steelers may trade Porter, and the Detroit Lions and Dallas Cowboys have been listed as possible trade partners. Time will tell if the defensive back is on the move soon.
During the 2025 season, Porter posted 52 total tackles for Pittsburgh. That included 35 solo stops. He has been a key cog in the Steelers secondary over the last few seasons.
McCarthy added more information when asked about Porter's status.
“We've got a plan for Joey,” said McCarthy, per the team. “Hopefully he'll do more, give him a chance to get out there. He's in the same situation that anybody is coming off of a medical situation. Hopefully we can make progress.
“We all would love to see Joey play, and I'd love the opportunity to coach him.”
Pittsburgh is 2-1 on the season. The Steelers had their best game offensively of the season in a Week 3 win over the Cincinnati Bengals.
The Steelers play the Cleveland Browns in Week 4 of the NFL season. That contest is scheduled for Thursday.