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Did Joey Porter Sign a Contract Extension? Why He’s Not Playing for Steelers in Week 1

Joey Porter Jr. Pittsburgh Steelers

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Cornerback Joey Porter Jr. didn’t get a contract extension before Sunday’s Week 1 matchup against the Atlanta Falcons. As a result, the Pittsburgh Steelers cornerback isn’t playing in the 2026 NFL season opener.

A trade is also on the table.

The Steelers listed Porter on their inactive list for Week 1 on Sunday morning. Entering the weekend, Porter was questionable because of a back injury. But The Pittsburgh Post-Gazette’s Ray Fittipaldo reported he is healthy enough to play.

Steelers insider Mark Kaboly also called Porter a healthy scratch.

Sources said Porter, who had previously requested a trade from the Steelers, is open to playing elsewhere, and an early-season trade is possible,” wrote ESPN’s Adam Schefter and NFL Network’s Ian Rapoport.

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