Pittsburgh Steelers defenders Joey Porter Jr., Jalen Ramsey and Jaquan Brisker watch the action against the Green Bay Packers during the first half at Acrisure Stadium.
Barry Reeger-Imagn Images
Rumors are swirling that the Pittsburgh Steelers could trade Joey Porter Jr., as the 26-year-old cornerback is in a contract standoff with the organization. With the 2026-27 campaign quickly approaching, Jalen Ramsey shares his opinion on the situation.
In his comments regarding Porter and the Steelers, the 11-year veteran supports his teammate, according to Brooke Pryor of ESPN. Ramsey wants Porter on the field because he wants Pittsburgh's defense to be at full strength throughout the upcoming season.
“We need the whole secondary out there,” Ramsey said. “[The Steelers] got to pay Joey Porter.”
Porter is entering his fourth season in the NFL, which just so happens to be the final year of his rookie contract. The cornerback market has increased over the years, and the former second-round pick is ready to sign an extension with Pittsburgh. However, he and the front office have not yet come to an agreement on a new deal.
Steelers head coach Mike McCarthy shared his two cents on the situation on Monday. McCarthy claimed he looks forward to coaching Joey Porter Jr. but also acknowledged the business aspect of the NFL. The former Penn State Nittany Lion has both Ramsey and McCarthy in his corner.
Porter has been an incredibly consistent asset to the Steelers secondary throughout his first three years in the league. He was limited to 14 games last season after missing time early in the campaign with a hamstring issue. Even so, Porter still finished with 52 combined tackles (35 solo), one sack, one interception, and 14 pass deflections.