Steelers rumors: Ian Rapoport’s Joey Porter Jr. contract update keeps hope alive

Pittsburgh Steelers cornerback Joey Porter Jr. was seen in an extended discussion with general manager Omar Khan on the practice field, highlighting the tension between the front office and the 26-year-old standout defender as the regular-season contract deadline approaches.

The sight of Porter and Khan speaking on the sideline indicated a high-stakes standoff. However, NFL Network insider Ian Rapoport believes that a breakthrough before the season opener is still possible. Despite the widespread concern and the existing contract gap, Rapoport’s latest updates suggest that optimism should not be dismissed just yet.

On The Pat McAfee Show, Rapoport offered a balanced perspective on the ongoing negotiations, offering a glimmer of hope for Steelers fans anxious about the deadline. McAfee shared Rapoport’s encouraging sentiment on X, quoting him: “Until the season starts, I won’t give up hope that this Joey Porter Jr. deal can be done. He has been practicing, and this is one to keep an eye on.”

"Until the season starts I won't give up hope that this Joey Porter Jr deal can be done..

He has been practicing and this is one to keep an eye on" ~ @RapSheet #PMSLive pic.twitter.com/gMTnIcYBdV

— Pat McAfee (@PatMcAfeeShow) September 8, 2026

Rapoport noted that Porter’s participation in practice is a crucial factor keeping discussions ongoing. Although the Steelers and Porter have struggled with the rising cornerback market, Pittsburgh has a solid track record under Khan of finalizing last-minute contract extensions right before Week 1.

The coaching staff has noticeably downplayed the urgency of the situation. In addressing the media, head coach Mike McCarthy provided few specific updates regarding Porter’s contract status, focusing instead on the cornerback’s physical development: “He’s doing a good job; he’s going through the ramp-up process. We’re going to do a little bit more with him today. This is the first time he’s been able to put the pads on. We need to stay true to that process, being smart and not rushing things.”

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